China's gift to Hollywood

Ziyi in a scene from Memoirs of a Geisha

According to some critics, Ziyi may earn a best-actress Oscar nod for her role as the legendary geisha, Sayuri, in Memoirs of a Geisha, the big-screen adaptation of Arthur Golden's best-selling novel about the life of a traditional Japanese entertainer.

In a recent interview, the talented actress shared her views on her latest movie, geishas and more.

Asked why she thinks westerners are so fascinated with the geisha culture, Ziyi says, "The fascination with geishas is not limited to Western people. I'm Chinese, and hardly anyone in China knows what a geisha's world is it's very mysterious. As humans, we're always obsessed with the unknown. When you don't know someone -- you really want to get to know her or him... or some food you've never tried. People say, 'Oh, it's very special, you really have to taste it.' Maybe that's why."

Was it strange playing the role of a legendary geisha and not being Japanese? Ziyi's response is, "You know, the first time I heard the news (that I got the part), I just thought, this role is so great. Any actress from any background who gets this tremendous role will give their very best effort. So, I did just that. I hope my performance reflects all my effort."

Any interesting experience while shooting for the movie? A chortling Ziyi says, "We were doing rehearsals. We all had our kimonos on. There was this big mirror in the room, and all of us actors were standing in a line, watching ourselves. Each of us had to put a book between our knees, and walk. We had to put a teacup on the top of our heads as well and walk. Apparently that's how the geishas were taught the art of perfect posture. They also went through extensive lessons in etiquette. It sure was an intriguing experience!"

Ziyi's idea of beautiful is: "One has to be well-rounded, independent and confident. Looks and the physique are not of utmost importance. One has to have a nice heart and maintain kindness under all circumstances; that's the essence of being truly beautiful."

On the idea of "forbidden love", the actress shares, "That's the only thing I don't like about Sayuri's character. If I love someone, I would definitely share that with the object of my attraction. I wouldn't wait for 10 years -- that's too long."

Do people sometimes have trouble with her name? Ziyi smilingly says, "In China, my name is Zhang Ziyi. In America, my name is Ziyi Zhang. They just switch the first and last name so it's easier for them."

Compiled by Cultural Correspondent