An Exploration of Dark Human Desires

Read Time:4 Minute, 7 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Golden Lotus (Jin ping shuang yan)
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Genre: Drama
Year Released: 1974, 2024 88 Films Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 52m
Director(s): Han Hsiang Li
Writer(s): Han Hsiang Li
Cast: Chun Yang, Chin Hu, Ni Tien, Chen Ping, Chiang Ling, Chiang Nan, Chin Hsin, Hsia Ping, Hsia Wen, Hsu Yu, Jackie Chan, Ku Chiu-chin, Liu Hui-ling, Liu Wu-chi, Shih Tien, Tanny Tien Ni, Tien Ching, Wang Lai
Language: Chinese (Mandarin) with English subtitles
Where To Watch: available September 10, 2024; pre-order your copy here: www.88-films.myshopify.com, www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: The Shaw Brothers leap from their staple of martial arts spectacles with THE GOLDEN LOTUS. This compelling film ventures into the darker terrains of human desires and power dynamics. Directed by Han Hsiang Li, this film unearths layers of ambition and betrayal, tracing the path of its characters through a narrative drenched in emotional and social intricacies.

The plot of THE GOLDEN LOTUS centers around a wealthy and influential figure, Ximen Qing (Peter Yang Kwan/Chun Yang), whose thirst for power and sensual pleasures knows no bounds. He ensnares Pan Chin-lien (Chin Hu,) an unhappy wife mired in a lackluster marriage with the visually unappealing Wu Dalang. Pan and Ximen create a sinister tale of deception and murder, setting the stage for a relentless journey into moral decay. Ximen's actions underscore a chilling misuse of power, as he leaves devastation in his wake, manipulating those around him without remorse.

Diverging from the high-octane action of previous Shaw Brothers films, THE GOLDEN LOTUS delves into its characters' psychological conflicts and moral complexities. Han Hsiang Li’s directorial finesse is evident as he navigates the treacherous waters of romantic entanglements and struggles with power, ensuring that these elements enhance the story rather than detract from it. His portrayal of the characters’ interactions delves into the narrative's thematic depth.

One of the film's standout aspects is Pan's transformation from a subdued wife to a cunning protagonist who begins to manipulate her strength within a male-dominated world. Chin Hu's portrayal of Pan is a tour de force, capturing her tragic evolution with profound depth and intensity. Her performance beautifully illustrates the duality of her character, portraying her both as a perpetrator and a victim of her circumstances.

Despite its strengths, THE GOLDEN LOTUS faces challenges in pacing, particularly in scenes that depict the development of relationships, which can come across as hurried and lacking depth. Moreover, relying on voice-over narration to patch narrative holes occasionally disrupts the viewer’s engagement with the story.

Visually, the film is a wild spectacle, with meticulously crafted sets and costumes that authentically represent the era. The cinematography strategically uses lighting and shadows, enhancing the film’s atmospheric tension and highlighting the underlying themes of corruption and decadence.

Jackie Chan appears in a minor yet memorable role, adding a lighter touch to the otherwise somber narrative. He brings a spark of humor and showcases the early signs of his future prowess in one of his earliest roles. His brief presence injects a dynamic layer into the film, punctuating the heavy drama with moments of levity.

THE GOLDEN LOTUS transcends its role as mere entertainment, positioning itself as a pivotal exploration of the destructive capacities of unchecked desires. This film is an essential addition to the annals of Hong Kong cinema, inviting its audience to confront the unsettling realities of power and its consequences. For those drawn to historical dramas that combine critical analysis with compelling storytelling, THE GOLDEN LOTUS offers a unique perspective, making it a viewing experience for cinephiles and casual fans alike.

Bonus Materials:
High Definition (1080p) Presentation in 2.35:1 Aspect Ratio
Original Mandarin Audio

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[photo courtesy of 88 FILMS, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]

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