Zhang Yimou's first spy film receives acclaim following test screening

Cliff Walkers, the first foray of renowned Chinese director Zhang Yimou into the spy genre, has received wide acclaim from moviegoers and critics alike following a test screening Saturday.

Starring Zhang Yi and Yu Hewei, the action heavyweight is set for release in China on April 30, joining a packed lineup for screening during the five-day May Day holiday starting on May 1, usually a busy moviegoing period.

Yin Hong, vice chairman of the China Film Association and a renowned film critic, was amazed at the film's star-studded cast and hailed its high quality in a social media post.

Cliff Walkers currently boasts a rating of 9.2 out of 10 on e-ticketing platform Maoyan.

Its release in North America, Australia and New Zealand is also scheduled for April 30, according to CMC Pictures, the film's overseas distributor.