Zhu Yilong's Transformative Performance Earns Dual Accolades
In a groundbreaking moment for Chinese cinema, the 2024 Hundred Flowers Awards ceremony saw Zhu Yilong (朱一龙) clinch the Best Actor award for his role in "Only the River Flows" (人生大事). This triumph not only solidified Zhu's status as a versatile actor but also marked him as a dual recipient of both the Golden Rooster and Hundred Flowers Best Actor awards, a rare and prestigious achievement in the Chinese film industry.
"Only the River Flows," which aired on August 16th at 15:55, has captivated audiences with its unique approach to the often-taboo subject of death and its healing narrative. Director Liu Jiangjiang boldly turns the camera towards the funeral industry, presenting life's most poignant moments of separation with a refreshing blend of realism and sensitivity.
The film's poster serves as a visual metaphor for its themes, hinting at the delicate balance between life and death that the narrative explores. Liu Jiangjiang explains his vision: "A funeral can reflect a person's lifetime of ups and downs, as well as a family's joys and sorrows. I've always wanted to use this as a grand theme to tell a story."
Throughout the film, funeral elements serve as a constant symbolic presence. From the characters' attire and prop placement to the depiction of everyday scenes and burial rituals, every detail is imbued with subtle references to mortality and the process of saying goodbye. Liu notes, "This entire cultural system, passed down through thousands of years, represents Chinese wisdom in coping with the concept of death."
Exploring Life's Profound Moments Through the Lens of Funeral Customs
To approach the sensitive topic of death in a manner accessible to general audiences, the director chose the vibrant city of Wuhan as the backdrop. This decision infuses the film with a palpable sense of everyday life and societal warmth, presenting heavy themes through a lens of tenderness, local flavor, and even comedy.
Zhu Yilong's portrayal of Mo Sanmei marks a departure from his typically refined roles. Despite Mo's seemingly carefree demeanor, Zhu brings out the character's pure heart, delivering lines like "Every star in the sky is someone who loved us; if you believe, you become the one who plants stars" with touching sincerity. His performance captures the warmth of life and the uniquely Chinese sense of down-to-earth comfort and healing
The film also shines a spotlight on a rich ensemble cast. Yang Enyou's portrayal of the orphan Wu Xiaowen serves as a catalyst for the story's progression. Her depiction of a brave, stubborn child with two buns and a makeshift spear has resonated with audiences, earning her nominations for both the Golden Rooster and Hundred Flowers awards.
Veteran actor Luo Jingmin brings depth to the role of Old Mo, Mo Sanmei's father. Through his nuanced performance, Luo conveys the complexity of stern yet tender fatherly love, while also serving as a mouthpiece for the film's philosophical musings on mortality.
As producer Han Yan notes, "This film carries the theme of living well and cherishing the present." While "Only the River Flows" confronts the reality of death, it ultimately celebrates the warmth of human connections and the beauty of life itself.
A New Wave of Chinese Cinema: Balancing Realism and Heartwarming Narratives
The success of "Only the River Flows" at the Hundred Flowers Awards signals a shift in Chinese cinema towards more nuanced, emotionally resonant storytelling. By tackling difficult subjects with sensitivity and humor, the film has opened new avenues for exploring the human experience on screen.
Zhu Yilong's recent work in "When Negative and Negative Make a Positive" (负负得正) further showcases his range as an actor. This film, currently in theaters, delves into the complexities of young adult relationships, offering a fresh perspective on love and urban life. Zhu's portrayal of Huang Zhenkai, representing the struggles of young professionals caught between mundane routines and aspirations for more, has struck a chord with younger audiences.
Films like "Only the River Flows" and "When Negative and Negative Make a Positive" are pushing boundaries, challenging taboos, and offering audiences richer, more diverse narratives. These works not only entertain but also prompt viewers to reflect on life's most fundamental questions, marking a new chapter in the artistry and social impact of Chinese filmmaking.
