Peony Pavilion
Plot: Ciu Hua is a former courtesan who eventually ended up marrying a nobleman. She lives in his mansion as his fifth wife, but she hardly sees him, and the house is struggling to keep its budget under control. Ciu befriends Lan, a cousin of her husband and a free spirit who teaches at a local school. The two become very close, but then Lan falls in love with a colleague of hers. A relationship that is doomed from the start, but keeps her away from Ciu. Even when they're apart, their bond remains strong, and when adversity hits, they are there to support each other.
Watches
November 25, 2023
Yonfan delivers his take on Xianzu's traditional story. Yonfan is one of the first directors to represent the LGBTQ+ community in Hong Kong cinema, so it should be no surprise that his version of the story includes a same-sex relationship. It's the stylish and colorful cinematography, the gripping soundtrack, and Rie Miyazawa's utterly enchanting performance that give the film its real power though. It's been ages since I last watched the film, but it managed to win me over for a second time. A little-known gem, by an underrated director.
April 05, 2008
[review pending]