Watch A Spray of Plum Blossoms

A Spray of Plum Blossoms is a 1931 Chinese silent film directed by Bu Wancang and starring Lingyu Ruan, Cho-cho Lam, and Cilong Wang. The movie is considered a classic of Chinese cinema, blending elements of traditional Chinese opera, drama, comedy, and romance. The story is based on a popular 18th-century Chinese novel called "The Two Scholars," which tells the tale of two friends who fall in love with the same woman, leading to a series of misunderstandings and intrigues. In the movie version, Lingyu Ruan portrays the female lead, a beautiful and talented opera singer named Liu Lian. While performing in a small town, she captures the hearts of two young scholars, Zhang Zhongliang (played by Cilong Wang) and Sun Boya (played by Cho-cho Lam). Both men are smitten by her voice and beauty and begin to compete for her affections.

However, Liu Lian is not interested in either of them and has her own plans for the future. She dreams of becoming a famous opera singer and eventually moving to Shanghai, where she can achieve her goals and escape her troubled past. But her journey is not easy, as she faces numerous obstacles, including jealous rivals, greedy managers, and even her own doubts and fears.

Throughout the movie, the characters' emotions and desires are expressed through the music and dance performances, which are an essential part of Chinese opera. The film includes several scenes of traditional opera singing and dancing, as well as modern jazz music and dance numbers, which were inspired by the trends of the time. The blending of these different forms of art creates a unique and dynamic cinematic experience.

One of the most memorable scenes in the movie is a dance number in which Liu Lian performs with a group of female dancers dressed in colorful feathered outfits. The choreography is intricate and graceful, with the dancers moving in perfect synchronicity. The scene is a celebration of beauty, art, and female empowerment, as Liu Lian and her companions defy the traditional gender roles and expectations of their society.

Despite its light-hearted and entertaining plot, A Spray of Plum Blossoms also deals with serious themes such as social injustice, poverty, and gender inequality. The movie portrays the struggles and hardships of the working-class people in 1930s China, who were often exploited by their wealthy employers and faced limited opportunities for education and advancement. Liu Lian, as a female artist from a humble background, is a symbol of resilience and courage, who overcomes the societal barriers and pursues her dreams against all odds.

The film's visual style is also noteworthy, with its use of vivid colors, dynamic camera angles, and creative editing techniques. The camera follows the characters closely, capturing their facial expressions and body language in detail. The use of close-ups and medium shots creates an intimate and emotional connection between the audience and the actors.

In conclusion, A Spray of Plum Blossoms is a delightful and engaging movie that showcases the talents of some of the most prominent figures in Chinese cinema's golden age. It combines the elements of comedy, romance, drama, and opera in a unique and harmonious way, creating a timeless masterpiece that is still beloved by audiences worldwide. The movie's message of hope, perseverance, and the power of art to transcend social barriers is as relevant today as it was 90 years ago.