Introduction"The Story of Qin Xiang-Lian" is a 1964 Taiwanese film, directed by Lin Tuan-Chiu and produced by the Union Film Company. It is based on a famous Chinese folktale, characterized by themes of love, betrayal, and perseverance. It is also frequently described as the "Chinese Madame Bovary". The film starring Bai Yang and Ko Hsiang-Ting, exists as a historic drama embeded in Song Dynasty China.
Plot OverviewThe story revolves around its title character, Qin Xiang-Lian, represented by Bai Yang, and her enthusiast, Chen Shimei, played by Ko Hsiang-Ting. Qin Xiang-Lian and Chen Shimei are youth fans, who later on end up being male and better half. The couple has 2 children and lives a modest life up until Chen Shimei leaves for the Imperial City to sit for the civil-service evaluations.
Chen Shimei becomes effective and is designated as an authorities in the imperial court. Nevertheless, he cuts off all ties with his family back home and marries another woman, the emperor's daughter. He abandons Qin Xiang-Lian and their 2 boys totally.
Conflict and ResolutionQin Xiang-Lian, to make ends meet, resorts to offering pancakes in the city. By a twist of fate, she reunites with Chen Shimei, who tries to conceal his past by buying the execution of Qin Xiang-Lian and their kids. Qin Xiang-Lian pleads her case directly to the Emperor, stating her heartrending journey to discover Chen Shimei.
Moved by her words, the Emperor orders an examination into the case, which discovers Chen Shimei's web of lies. In the end, exemplary justice is served when the Emperor orders Chen's execution and renews Qin Xiang-Lian's rights.
Significance and Reception"The Story of Qin Xiang-Lian" is an ageless classic embodying females's perseverance and nerve to eliminate against social injustice. The movie stands apart for its feminist undertones, special in the patriarchal feudal social context. It likewise highlights the stark contrasts in between royal life and the common individuals during the Song Dynasty.
The music score, especially the theme song "Four Seasons Song", ended up being popular, deepening the audience's psychological connection to the movie. Although the motion picture was not a substantial success in Taiwan, it has had a significant influence on Chinese drama and opera, making it a substantial cultural-historic artefact. Bai Yang's portrayal of the humble and yet resistant Qin Xiang-Lian became one of the most well known performances of her prestigious acting profession.
ConclusionOverall, "The Story of Qin Xiang-Lian" is considered a milestone in Taiwanese movie theater. Its gripping story, standout performances, and significant recount of unswerving love and heartbreaking betrayal make it a must-watch. Regardless of its age, it still holds significance, highlighting issues of gender equality and social justice shown in its primary character's strong decision and withstanding spirit.
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