One must have lived through the Communist system to really appreciate the courage it takes to make such a film in a Communist country. History is still in making and there have been many come backs of the conservative forces in China. Creators may pay with their careers, liberty or even life for such a sincere open approach to the history of China in the last fifty years. The makers of this film deserve all our respect for this is probably the most openly critic film towards the system that I saw made in Communist China.
But beyond all this is a very good film. The whole history of China in the second half of the 20th century is re-told through the eyes of a couple who live, love, and somehow survive all the dramatic times their country goes through. And although the price they pay is huge - they are losing dear people, they must make terrible compromises, give up their dreams - they keep their humanity and the final message is one of hope. It is not only private hope, but also the hope of a whole people to survive the tougher of the times of trouble, remaining true to its tradition and humanity.
The film is very well acted and directed. The story line is a little melodramatic, but there are so many memorable scenes and lines, that make it for the aparent lack of complexity. This is certainly one of the best Chinese movies I have seen, and the Chinese cinema provided in the last ten years or so some of the true great creations of world cinema. 9/10 on my personal scale.
But beyond all this is a very good film. The whole history of China in the second half of the 20th century is re-told through the eyes of a couple who live, love, and somehow survive all the dramatic times their country goes through. And although the price they pay is huge - they are losing dear people, they must make terrible compromises, give up their dreams - they keep their humanity and the final message is one of hope. It is not only private hope, but also the hope of a whole people to survive the tougher of the times of trouble, remaining true to its tradition and humanity.
The film is very well acted and directed. The story line is a little melodramatic, but there are so many memorable scenes and lines, that make it for the aparent lack of complexity. This is certainly one of the best Chinese movies I have seen, and the Chinese cinema provided in the last ten years or so some of the true great creations of world cinema. 9/10 on my personal scale.