3D traditional Chinese opera films to hit film fest
“The Love Story in the Western Chamber”
Two 3D traditional Chinese opera films — Kunqu film “The Bell Tolls for a Dynasty” and Yueju film “The Love Story in the Western Chamber” — will premiere at Majestic Theater on June 21.
It took the Shanghai Center of Chinese Opera about three years to produce the movies. Officials said the films retain the artistry of traditional Chinese operas while making them more accessible to young audiences.
“The Bell Tolls for a Dynasty” condensed the theater version of over two hours into around 100 minutes. Set in the late Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), the film depicts the fall and the last turbulent days of the dynasty. It is also the first 3D Kunqu Opera movie.
“The Love Story in the Western Chamber” tells of a romance between Cui Yingying and Zhang Junrui. It stars famous Yueju Opera performers Qian Huili and Fang Yafen in poetic scenes and romantic melodies.
This year’s Shanghai International Film Festival will host forums on traditional Chinese opera films. Audiences will have the opportunity to have face-to-face talks with the crew members.
The Shanghai Center of Chinese Operas has also announced that they will collaborate with Shanghai Film Museum to set up a screening base for traditional Chinese opera films.
Later the movies will be screened in local schools and communities.
“The Love Story in the Western Chamber”
“The Bell Tolls for a Dynasty”
