Farewell My Concubine (1993)
Beijing Opera is immune to the Cultural Revolution
Presentation:
It seems the most acclaimed Chinese films are often banned and this one is no different. Portraying the uglier side of the Cultural Revolution, the film has naturally been banned, censored then edited prior to China’s bid for the 2000 Olympics. At its core is a moving coming of age epic of two disowned boys becoming Opera actors through thick and thin. Their brotherly bond is made more profound by their realistic hardships and is the centerpiece of the story rather than cultural heritage of the Beijing Opera. The obsession theme makes it more universal and narratively rich to watch compared to Zhang Yimou’s similar but more down to earth film To Live.
Conclusion:
For Chinese viewers, be warned that this is significantly more critical of the Communist Party compared to other internationally acclaimed Chinese movies (depending on which edited version you watch). Sometimes movies earn their stars simply because of certain political angles, but this film truly has a compelling narrative regardless of the political aisle you are on. For westerners, this may not be as epic as The Last Emperor, but it’s more true to Chinese sensibilities and is quite easy to follow even if you know nothing about Chinese culture. You shouldn’t be interested in this film for its notoriety of taboo themes, the screenplay speaks for itself.
Recommendations
When disabled method acting is shaky at best.