The Assassin is a martial arts film directed by Hou Hsiao-hsien. Set in 9th-century China, the film tells the story of a female assassin tasked with killing corrupt government officials. The Assassin is known for its breathtaking visuals, meticulous attention to detail, and its poetic and meditative approach to storytelling. It won the Best Director award at the Cannes Film Festival and received international acclaim for its artistic merits and its exploration of themes such as duty, loyalty, and personal sacrifice.