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Tottie1946
Reviews
Zhi fou zhi fou ying shi lü fei hong shou (2018)
Compares favourably with Dream of Red Chambers!
Although I have not yet finished viewing all the episodes in this drama, it is obvious from the first 7 or 8 that this is a quality drama. Especially, regarding the mores and culture of the period. As I have yet to see all of the episodes then I must give it nine stars rather than ten. However, I have no doubt that after seeing all episodes I would give it a ten.
Feng Shaofeng will be familiar to many people who enjoy Chinese drama. His most well-known role is in the eponymous 'Prince of Lang Ling" TV production. Further, his performances in Tsui Hark's 'Young Inspector Dee" films has added to his reputation as one of the principle actors in today's Chinese Films. A further mention of Feng Shaofeng's virtuosity can also be seen as the sublime Monk in the equally entertaining 'Monkey King' productions.
In this drama he has an equally experienced female actor as his co-star. The inimitable; Zhao Liying. An impressive talent in her own right, Zhao has starred in many popular and critically acclaimed dramas. Many times being nominated and then won for her performances.
The costumes, mise-en-scene and direction all live up to making this one of the best dramas of 2019. I look forward to seeing further episodes of this excellent drama from China.
Resolve (2017)
Religion doesn't have to be such an obvious factor
Maori do take their various religions seriously. The most common practised is that of the Mormons. Possibly because they were one of the first evangelicals to arrive.
I have pondered why so many Maori are attracted to Christianity The only explanation I can find is in the cannibalistic aspect of Maori culture. It seems that Christianity, through its cannibalistic rituals, (the blood and body of Christ) could be said to appeal to those of within the Maori culture.
In 1994 I visited the site of the signing of the Waiting Treaty. Many clauses of this Treaty have yet to be carried out in full. Until they are, then the Maori will never be totally free from colonial rule.
Wang-ui namja (2005)
South Korea Today
South Korea is one of the most politically corrupt countries in Asia. However, in spite of this artists continue to make dramas and films set in several genres which, though not overtly political, manage to get the message across that there is an endemic culture of 'the haves will cling to their privileges no matter what' in modern day Korea.
This film would certainly have to belong to that genre. As the Chief Eunoch states to the King.....I brought them in (that is, the minstrels) to show you (a mirror) of your Court, however, your lust for a boy (clouded your judgement).
At the end of the film one is left with the knowledge that the rule of the Ministers will be no less corrupt than that of the King. And as the fadeout begins we see the simple joy inherent within the brotherhood of the minstrels. Whether that joy and brotherhood can be translated into a new regime has yet to be seen.
Yun shui yao (2006)
A beautiful Human Story
I don't write reviews that often. but I had to write about the effect this story had on me.
The sensitivity and beauty portrayed and expressed by all the characters is rarely found on the screen. It must be said that although there are aspects to this story that might only found in the political atmosphere of that era (that is the Cold War and the relationship between 'Formosa' and mainland China) it is a story that is universal.
One of the many things I admired about this film was that it never descended into sentimentality. Something that could have happened quite easily in less expert and competent hands. The director has steered this film with just the right touch.
One reviewer was unhappy with the musical score. Just as an aside the song the young lovers sang together fitted perfectly with the narrative and the times. It is from the film 'The Great Waltz'. the lyric is '...you told me you loved me when we were young one day.' How apt isthat to the context of the film.
Anyone with a love of cinema will be richly rewarded by taking the time to appreciate this film. I am sorry that I could only watch it on my laptop. The cinematography would have been breathtaking on the big screen.