From Star Bulletin (link):

CHEN KAIGE believes in second chances.

Much like the character of Princess Qingcheng in his latest film, “The Promise,” Chen has shown that a person’s so-called destiny can be changed through thoughtful choices. Throughout much of his 24-year career in feature filmmaking, Chen has adeptly used allegory and metaphor to illustrate the battle between political and social doctrine and self-expression.

In his latest movie, a goddess of fortune named Manshen plays a pivotal role in telling the main characters what direction their lives will take.

“Traditionally, Chinese people have a tendency to believe in destiny and fate,” Chen said Friday in a telephone interview. “They’re under their control, it was so written, so there’s nothing they can do about it.

See also “The Promise (Wu Ji)” by Aurum Movies