Watch The War of Loong

The War of Loong is a Chinese film directed by Guojie Liu and starring Liu P?qi and C?o Yunjin. Released in 2017, the film is set in the Chinese countryside during the Cultural Revolution in the 1960s. It follows the story of a young boy named Ma Xiaojun and his family, who are struggling to survive. The film begins with the 13-year-old Xiaojun, who is a student at a local school. His father, Ma Jianfeng, is a respected teacher who is highly regarded in their village, but he is also seen as a threat to the Communist Party. He is labeled as a counter-revolutionary and sent to a labor camp in a remote area. This leaves Xiaojun's mother, Zhang Jianhua, to take care of the family on her own.

The family's hardship worsens when they are forced to give up their land and home to make way for a new dam. The family is given a small factory as compensation but soon finds out that it's not profitable. With no other source of income, Zhang Jianhua decides to take over her husband's teaching job. However, she soon realizes that being a teacher is not an easy job, especially during a time of political chaos.

The film explores the complicated relationship between the Communist Party and the people of China. It shows how political ideologies can be used as a tool to control and oppress people, as well as how people can express their resistance and hope for change. It also depicts the impact of the Cultural Revolution on the Chinese society, including the suffering of common people and the damage caused by political struggles.

As the story progresses, Xiaojun becomes more aware of the political situation around him. He witnesses the constant struggle to survive and the suffering of his family and loved ones. He is also exposed to the darker side of the Communist Party's regime, including the brutal propaganda campaigns and violent repression of dissent. Xiaojun becomes more disillusioned with the Party and begins to question his own beliefs.

The film's title, The War of Loong, refers to a mythical Chinese dragon that is symbolic of power, strength, and good fortune. The dragon is said to bring rain, which is essential for the survival of crops and the people in the country. The film's message is deeply rooted in Chinese culture and history. It highlights the importance of perseverance and resilience, as well as the struggle against oppression and injustice.

Overall, The War of Loong is a moving and thought-provoking film that sheds light on China's turbulent past. It offers an intimate portrayal of a family facing hardship during a time of great uncertainty, depicting their struggles and their quest for hope and freedom. The film's strong performances, compelling storyline, and beautiful cinematography make for an engaging and emotional cinematic experience.