[Reading Response: Lee, Leo Ou-fan]

The text talked about the evolution of Shanghai Cinema and Chinese films. From how the cinema was first introduced, how the audience evolved, to the reform of Chinese movies.

To me, what struck the most was the ingenuity of the Chinese in learning the arts. It in itself, in my opinion, is similar to a rag to riches story. In the beginning when the cinema was first introduced, the Chinese were severely behind. The production was far away from those of Hollywood and the working conditions were crude. However, with time, their films were recognized world-wide. The journey itself was not easy, it was filled with trial and error. By learning from other western movies and combining with their own rich Chinese cultures like the print culture or classical art, only then they revolutionized the field for the Chinese and only then they managed to make masterpieces like Wu Yonggang’s Goddess. 

Additionally, I believe, at least in cinema, there is a respect that the Chinese might have for western films. Willing to pay such high fees to view them and even admitting that western movies were just better. Furthermore, they even allowed it to shape certain social aspects like leisure and women’s role in society. I think this also contributed to help them make progress faster.  

 

– Abel Haris Harsono 3035834345

1 thought on “[Reading Response: Lee, Leo Ou-fan]

  1. Chak Chung says:

    You have briefly summarized Lee’s text and the development of Chinese cinema. Some questions to further your thoughts: how has Hollywood films influenced the Chinese medium? What are some characteristics of Chinese film that distinguish itself from the popular American form? Have films in China reflect an adoption of Western ideologies or do they retain certain cultural traditions? Some examples with elaboration will also help strengthen your points.

    Reply

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