Set in China’s Tang Dynasty, the 8th century 'golden age' of culture, The Assassin tells the story of a hitwoman trained by a nun to kill corrupt government officials, and turns the fast-paced format of martial arts films on its head with a slow, painterly approach typical of Taiwanese director Hou Hsiao-Hsien’s vast catalogue. Known for his award-winning historical drama A City of Sadness, the filmmaker’s stylish new feature won the Best Director Award at Cannes 2015 as well as a shelf full of Golden Horse awards—Taiwan’s Oscars equivalent.

This clip sees an elegant dance performance and stars Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon star Chen Chang.