Red Sorghum, released in 1988, is a Chinese film directed by Zhang Yimou and starring Gong Li in her breakout role. The film is based on a novel by Mo Yan and tells the story of a young woman who is forced into an arranged marriage with an older man and the struggles she faces in rural China during the 1920s.
The film begins with the arrival of a young woman, Jiu'er (played by Gong Li), at a sorghum wine distillery owned by her husband, an older man named Jinsheng (played by Jiang Wen). Jiu'er is initially repulsed by her husband and his crude ways, but over time she learns to appreciate his strength and loyalty.
The film is set against the backdrop of the Chinese Civil War, with the Communist Party fighting against the Nationalist government. The distillery becomes a target of the Nationalists, who see it as a source of revenue. Jiu'er and the workers at the distillery must fight to protect it from the Nationalists, who use brutal tactics to try and take control.
One of the most notable aspects of Red Sorghum is its cinematography. Zhang Yimou, who would go on to become one of China's most acclaimed directors, uses striking visuals to depict the harsh beauty of rural China. The film is filled with shots of rolling hills, fields of sorghum, and colorful landscapes that are both stunning and foreboding.
The film's score, composed by Zhao Jiping, is also a standout element. The haunting music adds to the film's atmosphere and helps to convey the emotions of the characters.
Red Sorghum was a critical and commercial success in China, winning the Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival and launching Gong Li's career as a leading actress. The film was also a breakthrough for Chinese cinema, which had been largely unknown in the West prior to its release.
The film's portrayal of rural China and its depiction of the struggles faced by women in traditional societies have made it a beloved classic. Red Sorghum is a powerful film that showcases the talents of its director, cast, and crew, and remains an important part of Chinese cinema history.