Director Ann Hui.[Photo provided to China Daily]

The original cut was even longer than the version in theaters.

Yin Xue, marketing director of the film's production company, Stellar Mega Films, says she has seen many different cuts, including a six-hour version and a four-hour version. The three-hour version is Hui's bottom line. Insiders say the length is a box-office obstacle.

"Films longer than three hours are problematic for theater managers, especially during the precious National Day holidays slot," says producer and former theater manager Chen Zheng.

"The screening time could accommodate two animated films or a feature and a half."

Critics have given the film mixed reviews.

Variety calls it a "three-hour endurance test". Critic Yang Zao calls it a dissertation on modern Chinese literature, rather than a film that enables audiences unfamiliar with Xiao Hong to better understand her.

The avant-garde narration technique is a double-edged sword.

While writer Song Fangjin sings the praises of its novelty and courage, critic Mu Weier believes it inhibits emotional involvement.