Chinese Cinema - the Non-Conformists
Film maker and critic
Tony Rayns introduces the second of three recent
Chinese films dealing with the question of conformity or non-conformity.
Hibiscus Town starring
1964: Hibiscus and her husband work hard to make a success of their market stall but are denounced as rich peasants by militant Party leaders. Reduced to sweeping the streets, Hibiscus finds support and affection from the outcast musician, Qin. A rich emotional chronicle of the turbulent reform movements of the 60s and 70s, Hibiscus Town was a huge success in China on its release, despite criticism from the authorities.
Screenplay by ZHONG ACHENG and XIE JIN Directed by XIE JIN
Television presentation DAVID THOMPSON
(A Mandarin film with English subtitles. First showing on British television)
* FILMS: page 21