1. A Simple Noodle Story

"A Simple Noodle Story" marks Zhang Yimou's return to film after a three-year hiatus. A drastic departure from his signature style, the black comedy remake of Joel and Ethan Coen's first full-length film Blood Simple, Zhang's work shifts the plot to China and features Er Ren Zhuan performers (a song and dance duet popular in Northeast China) adding comedic elements.

Land owner Wang Wu hires Zhang San to murder his adulterous wife and her lover Li Si. The amateur killer finishes off Wang instead, tempted by his wealth. After killing two waiters in the shop who might have witnessed his murder, Zhang goes after Li and the owner's wife. The couple manage to stop Zhang and killed him instead, and have a happy ending.

It is set for release on December 18.