Shu Qi: Find Yourself

"A decorated actor whose iconic roles span nearly three decades, Shu Qi branched out in 2025 with her directorial debut Girl, a semi-autobiographical coming-of-age drama that garnered her Best Director at the Busan Film Festival. For Lunar New Year, she’s curated a playlist of inspirational, cathartic songs from artists like CoCo Lee, IU, Katy Perry and The Chainsmokers, all designed to move the listener’s focus from the past to the future. Below, Shu shares with Apple Music her thoughts on letting go and looking ahead—and the crucial role music plays in that process. What expectations do you have for the Year of the Horse? “I hope for world peace in the new year, and for kindness in people’s hearts to help make society a little warmer. My own plan is to write the script for my second film as a director. I hope to have it done before 2027 arrives!” What is the theme of your playlist? “‘Forgive yourself, find yourself, understand yourself.’ May we all rid ourselves of this year’s harmful people, events and things and look to the future. It’s fine to look back and reminisce—but don’t stay attached. Believe in yourself, be true to yourself and become the self you want to be. Good people know that success goes both ways, so in the new year, remember to say ‘never again’ to the bad past.” What’s the guiding principle behind your song choices? “These songs have been with me for years. Life has its emotional ups and downs, and whenever I feel like I’m sinking, this vibrant music helps me swim back to the surface and stick my head above water for a breath of air. I look at the ever-changing sky, and then, I take a deep breath for another brave dive, in search of a different way through the water. I also enjoy lying on the surface in the tranquility of heaven and earth—and the chilly, stinging pressure of silence against my chest while I’m immersed and swimming through the world with freedom and confidence.” What Lunar New Year greetings are you sending out along with your playlist? “It’s 2026! Whatever you’re after, set your sights on that goal—but first, you need to understand how to love yourself! Understand how to let yourself be truly happy—don’t settle, but don’t strive for perfection either. Remember, being alone doesn’t necessarily mean being lonely but can represent freedom and control over your life. Even if not everything goes your way, you’ve got to believe and strive to be yourself. Eventually, a time will come when you’ll take to the skies.” What one track best represents your idea of Lunar New Year 2026? “‘New Year’s Day’ by Taylor Swift. Clear out all that negative energy, unburden your heart and let in some fresh air. Set in order those beautiful notes you’ve planned and feel the warmth around you—even if it’s just a warm ray of light.” Do you observe any special holiday traditions or customs? “Decluttering is a must ahead of the new year! Clean out your house, your heart and your office. Write out couplets to paste up for the festival, wear bright clothing and welcome a challenge-filled 2026.”"