★★★★½ "Zhang Yimou's charming love letter to the power of cinema delights" (Stuff.co.nz) 

A convict is sent to a labor camp in desolate Northwestern China during the Cultural Revolution. In order to see his daughter in a movie, he escapes and sets off to the cinema in a nearby village. There he crosses paths with a homeless girl who is desperate for the film reel and will steal it by any means. The enigmatic film reel that sets their agendas apart soon becomes the root of their unexpected friendship.

"Zhang Yimou's tale of the power of cinema has a gorgeous eye, a droll sense of humor and a big, full celluloid heart." - Variety

"An emotionally satisfying celebration of how cinema is experienced both individually and collectively." - Screen International

"Billed by the director as his tribute to cinema, One Second is affectionate and sweet" - Globe and Mail