This 1993 film was directed by Chen Kaige, who represents the Fifth Generation movement in China. Growing up together in a drama troupe, two boys Dieyi and Xiaolou eventually become Peking Opera stars after years of tough training. As adults, Dieyi (Zhang Guorong), who mostly plays the lead female role, has fallen in love with Xiaorou (Zhang Fengyi), who plays the male lead. But, when Xiaorou meets and marries the courtesan Ju Xian, subtle conflicts begin to arise between the two childhood friends. When the Cultural Revolution breaks out in 1966 and ruthless violence against traditional culture and drama begin, their conflicts turn into tragedy. The director, who experienced the Cultural Revolution in person, puts this period of upheaval and brutal violence on the screen in spectacular scenes. We can see the defining masterpiece of a Fifth Generation director who has explored China’s rich, tumultuous past and has made fascinating reflections on its history. With an indomitable spirit sealed into it, it is a ‘permanent classic’ of Chinese cinema. (Kang Nae Young)