Review of Chinese Red Lantern Film

The film "Raise the Red Lantern" is a story of beauty and terror.  It was originally banned in China because of its somber, even dark, depiction of Chinese society.  The film is directed by Zhang Yimou with actress Gong Li starring in the lead role.  This film was also nominated for an Oscar because it captivates the viewer from the start.  Raise the Red Lantern is film with a powerful and tragic story to tell which effectively disturbs the viewer on a personal level.  Regardless of the effect, it remains a must-see for anyone interested in the plight of women in old Chinese society.

In the 1920's women living in China had few choices to suit them very well.  Therefore, after her father dies the lead character Songlian is faced with a difficult decision.  She is a beautiful nineteen year old college student at the time of her father's untimely death.  However, she agrees to enter into a marriage to a wealthy man of high society.  As it turns out, she is to be wife #4 at a large and luxurious estate.  At this estate an ancient family custom of raising the red lantern outside the house of the wife the master desires to spend the night with is strictly observed.  At first, it appears that there is harmony between the wives.  However, with nothing to do but compete for the attention of the master Songlian soon learns that she is to be drawn into a dangerous game of petty rivalry.  In the end, the game escalates into a treacherous outcome resulting in an incredible tragedy.

Yes, the film is a sobering event to watch.  It causes one to think about the meaning of the past in the old society of China.  Perhaps there is a sense of deep futility which accompanies consideration of such a story.  Even though the film is a work of fiction based upon historical facts, the truth of the unfair treatment of women not so long ago still stirs our deepest emotions.  Watch with an open mind!

Best regards from the East,

Harlan Urwiler

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