Zhang and Gong -- who recently made the film "Curse of the Golden Flower" -- were one of Chinese film's best-known collaborations in the 1990s. Their movies included "Raise the Red Lantern," "Ju Dou," "To Live," and the director's 1987 debut, "Red Sorghum."

They last worked together on "Shanghai Triad," released in 1995.

Gong said it was easy to reconnect with Zhang despite the long separation in a TV special on "Curse of the Golden Flower" posted on the Chinese news Website Sina.com today.

"Working again with the director after so long, I discovered from our conversation we still have a lot in common. It's not that different from 10 years ago. The collaboration is very relaxed. We both know what we need to do," Gong said.

"I know how to give my best performances for the director. I hope he's satisfied with my performance," she said.

In the same TV special, Zhang praised Gong's skill.

"I think she's at her prime. She really knows how to act. Her emotions are very powerful," he said.

Zhang said in a separate interview he was impressed that Gong has become more pro-active in discussing the script.

"Curse of the Golden Flower," which will open on December 21, revolves around the power struggle between an ancient Chinese king (Chow Yun-fat), his queen (Gong) and his three sons.