Watch Beauty Remains

Beauty Remains is a heartfelt and visually enchanting Chinese drama film released in 2005. Directed by Ann Hu and based on the novel by author Xin Huo, this poignant story explores the complexities of love, sacrifice, and the resilience of the human spirit amidst the turmoil of historic events in China. Set in the backdrop of the Chinese Cultural Revolution in the 1970s, Beauty Remains introduces us to the talented young pianist, Liyan (played by Xun Zhou). Liyan's life takes an unexpected turn when her father, a renowned musician, is labeled a "class enemy" by the government, forcing the family to relocate to a remote southern village. Despite her disappointment and frustration, Liyan continues to study piano with dedication and grace, holding onto her dreams of pursuing a career in music.

In the isolated village, Liyan meets a charming young medical student named Sun Zhou (portrayed by Zhiwen Wang), who becomes captivated by her beauty and talent. The connection between Liyan and Sun Zhou grows deeper as they form a profound bond, fueled by their shared passion for music and their aspirations for a better future. Their relationship blossoms amidst the backdrop of a society suffocated by political oppression, creating an atmosphere of both hope and uncertainty.

While Liyan and Sun Zhou navigate their burgeoning love, the film also delves into the complexities of family dynamics. Liyan's mother (played by Xue Ju) struggles with her own desires for her daughter's future, torn between supporting Liyan's musical ambitions and the necessity of conforming to the societal norms imposed by the Cultural Revolution. The mother-daughter relationship becomes an essential subplot, highlighting themes of sacrifice, duty, and the clash between personal freedom and societal expectations.

As the story progresses, turbulent events in China begin to affect Liyan's life directly. The Cultural Revolution intensifies, posing a series of challenging obstacles that threaten not only her dreams but also her relationship with Sun Zhou. Together, they navigate the treacherous waters of a society blinded by political fervor, where the most innocent actions can have severe consequences. Their resilience and determination to hold onto their dreams while facing adversity form the emotional core of the film.

Beauty Remains stands out for its stunning cinematography that beautifully captures the vibrant and rich landscapes of both urban and rural China. Director Ann Hu skillfully weaves together stunning visuals, evocative music, and compelling performances to create a captivating cinematic experience. The film's screenplay expertly balances intimate character development with broader historical themes, offering viewers a profound and thought-provoking narrative.

Xun Zhou's performance as Liyan is nothing short of remarkable, capturing the essence of a passionate young woman navigating a world filled with uncertainty and turmoil. Her portrayal, layered with emotional depth and vulnerability, resonates with audiences as she endeavours to maintain her spirit and find beauty amidst the chaos.

Supported by accomplished performances from Zhiwen Wang and Xue Ju, Beauty Remains presents a captivating story that transcends time and place. It explores the universal themes of resilience, love, and the pursuit of dreams against overwhelming odds. The film offers a profound examination of the human experience during a tumultuous era and reminds us that the pursuit of beauty can thrive even in the harshest of circumstances.

Beauty Remains is a poignant and visually stunning film that leaves a lasting impression on its viewers. Through its compelling narrative and exceptional performances, it explores the power of love, music, and the unwavering resilience of the human spirit. This remarkable cinematic experience is a must-watch for those who appreciate thought-provoking storytelling and visually captivating films.

Beauty Remains is a 2010 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 22 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6 and a MetaScore of 49.