Watch Song At Midnight

Set in 1930s Shanghai, "Song At Midnight" tells the story of a famous opera singer, Yu Zhengyi (Menghe Gu), who is unjustly imprisoned for defending the honor of a woman he loves. Fifteen years later, he is released from prison and returns to his old theater, only to find it in ruins and his former colleagues scattered or dead. Desperate to preserve his legacy, Yu decides to use his skills and talents to exact revenge on those who wronged him, as well as to stage a comeback performance of his most famous role, the tormented lover in "The Phantom of the Opera."

Accompanied by his loyal pianist, Fang Ping (Ping Hu), Yu begins to take on a dual identity as the mysterious "Song At Midnight," a haunting figure who appears only at night to right the wrongs of the past. Among his targets are the theater's new owner, a corrupt businessman named Tan Jinyao (Shan Jin), who has exploited Yu's former colleagues and forced them to perform demeaning acts, and the doctor who condemned Yu to a life sentence, now a wealthy and arrogant politician. With the help of his remaining friends and the love of a young singer, Xiaomei (Ying-Ying Ho), Yu sets out to reclaim his destiny and give voice to his long-suppressed demons.

Directed by Ma-Xu Weibang, "Song At Midnight" is a landmark of Chinese cinema and an early example of the horror-musical genre. Based on Gaston Leroux's novel "The Phantom of the Opera" and inspired by the popular Chinese folk legend of the Night Singer, the film blends elements of melodrama, romance, tragedy, and suspense, all enhanced by the lush cinematography, the opulent set design, and the haunting score. As for the cast, Menghe Gu delivers a tour-de-force performance as Yu, conveying both the pathos and the menace of the character with equal skill, while Ping Hu provides a delicate counterpoint as the stoic and supportive Fang. Shan Jin is suitably detestable as the villainous Tan, and Ying-Ying Ho brings a fresh and affecting voice to the role of Xiaomei. The supporting actors, including Li Li-Li and Li Keng, add further depth and color to the tale, making "Song At Midnight" a rich and memorable experience.

Beyond its artistic achievements, "Song At Midnight" also bears historical significance, as it was made during a period of political turmoil and cultural revolution in China. The film reflects the tensions and anxieties of the time, as well as the aspirations and ideals of the Chinese people, who were struggling to find their own voice and identity in the face of foreign influences and domestic challenges. The figure of Yu Zhengyi, a proud and passionate artist who refuses to bow to authority and corruption, embodies the spirit of resistance and creativity that many Chinese saw as essential to their survival and dignity.

Overall, "Song At Midnight" is a classic of Chinese cinema that deserves to be better known abroad. Its haunting melodies, tragic themes, and Gothic atmosphere make it a timeless work of art, while its exploration of issues such as justice, love, and freedom give it a universal relevance. Whether you are a fan of musicals, horror movies, or international cinema, this film is sure to captivate and move you. So, sit back, turn off the lights, and let the Song At Midnight take you on a journey into the heart of darkness and beauty.

Song At Midnight is a 1937 horror movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 58 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.1.