After graduating from Beijing Film Academy, the cradle of China's top actors and directors, the scholastic standout became a teaching assistant at the institution.

But she felt too young and inexperienced to be an effective instructor. This led Yu to quit her cozy and promising job to study in the United States.

Her quiet campus life across the Pacific Ocean was later cut short by a 1998 phone call from director Yang Yang. The strong-minded woman insisted that Yu was perfect for the role of an innocently lovable mistress in her TV drama "Qian Shou," or "Hand In Hand."

As one of the first dramas to probe into the subject of midlife crises in urban China, "Hand In Hand" attained huge popularity. Yu's fame also skyrocketed as she jumped onto the list of the country's most sought-after actresses.

In 2006, the limelight-weary star retreated from public view, and wholeheartedly devoted herself to preparations for "Eternal Beloved."

Known for exuding stillness, composure, and femininity - Yu brings each of those characteristics to her new endeavor. She also says she has now found another side of herself as a director. Yu confidently feels she can be as adamant and unbeatable as anyone in her newest and most challenging role.