The high-profile Hong Kong film The Postmodern Life of My
Aunt enjoyed its Beijing premiere on Monday.
Before the ceremony, Hong Kong director Ann Hui and screenwriter
Li Qiang met with media accompanied by the film's A-list cast,
including major Hong Kong star Chow Yun-fat and veteran Chinese
actresses Siqin Gaowa and Vicki Zhao.
Based on a popular novel, the movie shows old-fashioned Ye Rutang,
played by Siqin Gaowa, and her struggle to live a dignified life in
modern Shanghai with con men lurking around every corner.
When describing her role, Siqin Gaowa said the aunt's journey
and struggles were reflections of both the film director and
herself.
"This film's director is the best example of the aunt. Her
devotion and serious attitude reflect Ye's character as well as her
rejection of trivial matters in life. As for me, I sometimes feel
out-of-touch and passed by events. I think middle-aged and older
people will feel familiar touches when watching this film."
Director Ann Hui stated but at first audience might watch this
film as a comedy but that upon stepping back from it, the tragedy
of the story would become apparent.
"People often feel at loss to deal with the problems of everyday
life. Even I don't want to face up to the bitter reality of life.
In truth, real life is close to what is shown in the movie, filled
with both laughter and tears."
She also hoped that the film would help enlighten audiences as
to the kind of lives lead by urban women at a time when popular
values are constantly shifting.
She thanked the film's cast for their utmost professionalism and
dedication, setting aside their glamorous images to help the film
be as good and as realistic as possible.
Chow Yun-fat pointed out the differences between his usual roles
and his part as a swindler in The Postmodern Life of My
Aunt as a swindler in the film. In preparing for the role, he
invested himself fully in learning Peking opera.
The cast and crew will now promote the film in Shanghai and
Shenzhen hoping to attract more attention.
In November last year, the film met with success at the 43rd Taiwan
Golden Horse Film Awards , garnering nominations in several major
categories such as Best Screenplay Adaptation, Best Actress and
Best Supporting Actress.
It first met with national praise following its original
premiere in Hong Kong and recent preview in Beijing. Yu Dan, a
professor at Beijing Normal University, welcomed it as providing a
vivid portrayal of the hardships of life and of people's
indomitable nature. Ye Rutang's experiences show off the
persistence, disappointments and compromises one must undergo to
live a normal life. The film is all the more noteworthy for having
such an impact on a small budget.
The film is slated for general release on March 6 as it vies to
capture the Women's Day box office.
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(CRI.cn March 6, 2007)
