Recipe for survival

Recalling the first time she read the script, Dou says she was particularly struck by the character's first name, Yan, which literally means "salt" — a detail that felt symbolic, given the role's connection to food.

In addition to her formal training, Dou has also been deeply influenced by her parents, both famous musicians. The atmosphere of creativity has infused every part of her daily life. "Growing up in a musical household, conversations were always more feelings — and nuances-driven rather than logical. That in itself is quite helpful when it comes to creativity, you know, because logic can be a trap," she explains.

"In music, the sense of breathing and rhythm is really important, and I think that translates into acting as well. So, even though I think acting and making music are quite different experiences, they share the common factor of having to let go of things — like, for example, your ego — and just be," adds Dou.

The drama marks Dou's second collaboration with director Li, following their 2021 film Bipolar, in which Dou plays a young woman who travels across the country to set a lobster free.

Speaking about Her, director Li told China Daily that the character marks a striking departure from Dou's well-off background. Yet, she sees the role as an opportunity for Dou to step into uncharted creative territory, shed her long-held public label, and reveal a new side of herself to the audience.