The mid-late 1980s marked the rise of Fifth Generation of Chinese filmmakers whose works brought immense popularity to Chinese cinema abroad. Most filmmakers of this generation such as Zhang Yimou, Tian Zhuangzhuang, Chen Kaige, Zhang Junzhao and others, jettisoned traditional methods of storytelling opting for more free and unorthodox approach.
It was during this productive period Chinese cinema began reaping rich rewards on the global movie marquee. Spotlighting on one of the most influential and widely respected auteurs among them, Suchitra Film Society, is screening Zhang Yimou’s much accoladed film — Curse of the Golden Flower.
Opulence is the operative for sumptuously visual tapestry Curse of the Golden Flower, the exquisite, elegant epic masterpiece from Zhang Yimou which offers fictionalised historical glimpse into the brutally complicated politics of Emperor Ping’s (Chow Yun Fat) reign during the Tang Dynasty.
Set in lavish and breathtaking colorful world, and filmed on an operatic scale, it’s a tale of a royal family ranged against itself, where trust is betrayed and family blood spilled in the quest for redemption and revenge.
The convoluted tale of power games, takes viewers into dazzling and spectacular world of betrayal, vengeance and passion that will change one’s perception of martial arts forever. Woven into the plot is poisoning, incest and intrigue as it charts the downfall of the family of Emperor Ping in the run-up to the Chung Yeung Festival where Chrysanthemums play an important role. Hence, the golden flower which lends the film its title.
The intricate plot involves the Emperor's wife Phoenix (Gong Li) and their three sons, Crown Prince Xiang, Prince Jie, and Prince Cheng, and closely follows the Empress’ secret plan to force abdication upon her corrupt husband as revenge for his slowly poisoning her with Black Fungus tea. Meanwhile, a sub-plot develops as Emperor’s ex-wife and mother to Crown Prince Yu reemerges as Yu’s lover.
The film’s vibrant visual palette enthralls the viewers and overwhelms the senses of the audience as they watch with awe and admiration the saga unfold in all its pomp and pageantry. Screening on Fri, Oct 12, 6.45 pm at Suchitra, Banashankari II Stage. For details call 26711785.
