Watch Red Sorghum (2014, Zhou Xun, Zhu Yawen)
- 2014
- 2 Seasons
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6.8 (111)
Red Sorghum is a Chinese television series produced by Shandong TV in collaboration with Qingdao Golden Phoenix Film & Television Culture Company and Flower Film & TV. Starring Zhou Xun and Zhu Yawen, the show is adapted from the novel of the same name by Mo Yan, who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2012.
Set during the early years of the Chinese Civil War in the 1930s, Red Sorghum tells the story of a young woman named Jiuâer, who is played by Zhou Xun. Jiuâer's father sends her to marry a leprous wine-maker named Guan Jifa, played by Zhang Jiuling, in order to secure a business deal. Jiuâer is initially resistant to the idea, but when she arrives at the winery, she falls in love with a worker named Yu Zhan'ao, played by Zhu Yawen.
As Jiuâer becomes more involved with the winery, she becomes aware of the harsh social and political realities of the time. The winery is located in a region that is ravaged by war, and the workers are facing many challenges from both outside and within the winery. The Japanese army is making advances into China, and local warlords are fighting to establish their control over the region.
Despite these challenges, Jiuâer and Yu Zhan'ao develop a deep and passionate relationship. The two of them are involved in many of the events of the time, including a battle with bandits and a confrontation with a cruel warlord. As the series progresses, the relationship between Jiuâer and Yu Zhan'ao becomes increasingly complicated, as they struggle to balance their love with the realities of their situation.
One of the most striking aspects of Red Sorghum is the way in which it presents a deep and nuanced portrayal of Chinese culture and history. The series is set in a very specific time and place, and it explores the social, political, and cultural issues of the period. At the same time, however, the show is also a deeply emotional love story, and it explores the complex and often conflicting emotions of the characters.
The acting in Red Sorghum is also superb. Zhou Xun is a standout, bringing both vulnerability and strength to her portrayal of Jiuâer. Zhu Yawen also gives a powerful performance as Yu Zhan'ao, playing the character with a quiet intensity that is both captivating and unsettling. The supporting cast is also excellent, with many of the actors bringing a depth and realism to their characters.
Overall, Red Sorghum is a powerful and moving drama that explores the complexities of love and social change. It is a testament to the talent of the cast and the creative team behind the show that they were able to take Mo Yan's novel and turn it into a compelling and emotionally resonant television series. Fans of historical dramas, romance, and Chinese culture will find much to enjoy in Red Sorghum.