The article talks more about the influence of films on the architectural landscape of Shanghai. The aspect that captivated my attention in this article was surrounding the interplay between the emerging film industry and the architectural evolution of a new Shanghai, which emerged as a direct consequence of this cinematic movement.
Shanghai in the 20th century emerged as a rapidly developing metropolis that experienced an input of Western influences due to it being a large international hub. Similar to Hong Kong’s British colonialism and cultural infusion, Shanghai also underwent a transformation shaped by foreign influences, particularly through the introduction of Western films, which played a notable role in developing the city’s urban landscapes. As Chinese society developed a strong to embrace Western culture and ideas due to colonial influence and trade, Hollywood films gained prominence in Shangai. This film reflected Western culture, showcasing glamorous Hollywood stars, intriguing plots and visually captivating cities. Since films were not readily accessible, they became a symbol of the upper class. This idealisation of film in Shanghai led proliferation of movie theaters as a part of the city’s urban landscape and the incorporation of neoclassical styles in their architectural design of buildings. The prominence and popularity of movie theatres in Shanghai symbolized the city’s embrace of Western films and culture and its aspiration to become a cosmopolitan metropolis.
— Anvesha Bajpai, 3036137184
You address the interconnection between the film and the urban landscape of Shanghai, particularly how “western” (American-made) films influence the city’s landscape. Could you discuss how this phenomenon is visible in the city’s landscape. You also pointed out that Shanghai cinema became a symbol of upper-class society. Could you explain how this idea is presented and reinforced in the film, through the style, narrative structure or otherwise?
Thank you for your comment. To answer the first part of your question: In the 1920s-30s, American-made films influenced Shanghai’s urban landscape. The city’s architecture was shaped by the portrayal of modern and glamorous settings in Western films, leading to the construction of high-rise buildings and Art Deco-inspired structures such as the Paramount Dance Hall (now known as the Shanghai Concert Hall) and Entertainment venues such as the Cathay Theatre.
To answer your second question, In the 1920s-1930s, Shanghai cinema symbolized the upper class through opulent settings like mansions and ballrooms, and characters dressed in fashionable attire. Films focused on high society individuals, portraying them as sophisticated and privileged. These elements reinforced the association between wealth, fashion, and social status, creating an aspirational allure for audiences. I further looked into the particular film of “The Goddess” (1934). Directed by Wu Yonggang, surrounds a single mother named Xiao Hong who becomes a prostitute to support her family. Opulent settings like nightclubs and wealthy clients’ homes depict the allure of the upper class. Fashion choices reflect the trends, with elegant attire for upper-class characters. This film exemplifies the era’s depiction of class dichotomy and reinforces cinema as a symbol of the elite