
Zhang Yu
Zhang Yu (born September 25, 1982, in Guizhou, China) is a prominent actor from Mainland China, known for his transformative roles and deep commitment to independent cinema. Formerly credited under the name Zhang Xin, he is celebrated for embracing complex characters and unconventional projects, earning the reputation of being a "drama addict" within industry circles. With over a decade dedicated to supporting and promoting independent films, Zhang has become an influential figure among contemporary Chinese actors. He rose to international attention with his powerful performance as Yu Cheng in An Elephant Sitting Still (2018), followed by widely praised roles in Dying to Survive, A Cool Fish, and Back to the Wharf. His work often explores themes of morality, societal pressure, and emotional nuance, setting him apart as a master of subtle intensity. Zhang Yu has continued to expand his creative reach, appearing in more than 29 productions including film and television. He also serves as a part-time visual artist and script consultant, further reflecting his multifaceted approach to storytelling.
Known For
Credits
- 2025 · A Cool Fish 2 as Chen Sanjin
- 2025 · She's Got No Name as 梁法医
- 2025 · The One as
- 2024 · Her Story as Xiao Ma
- 2024 · Betwixt and Between as Sanzhe
- 2024 · The First Shot as Jiang Xiaohai
- 2023 · Record Without Words as 李立忠
- 2023 · Tainted Love as Lin Zhiguang
- 2023 · Love, My Way as
- 2022 · Snipers as Liu Wenwu
- 2022 · Nice View as Ma Yue
- 2022 · Manchurian Tiger as Xu Dong
- 2021 · The Year of the Everlasting Storm as
- 2021 · The Break Away as
- 2021 · Pistol as
- 2021 · Are You Lonesome Tonight? as The Blind Singer
- 2020 · Back to the Wharf as Song Hao
- 2020 · My People, My Homeland as Policeman
- 2018 · An Elephant Sitting Still as Yu Cheng
- 2018 · A Cool Fish as Hu Guangsheng
- 2018 · Dying to Survive as Yellow Hair
- Future · Heroes of Dunhuang as Lang Yaozi
- 2018 · Ciao Ciao as Li Wei
- Future · She's Got No Name: Part Two as
- 2012 · People Mountain People Sea as Guizhou Police Officer
- 2011 · 幸福59厘米之爱有多久 as 鑫子
- Future · Cry of the Birds as
- 2010 · 11度青春之李雷和韩梅梅 as 李雷
- Future · The Old Dog as
- Future · Three Words as