Adaptations from Classic Literature

Sunrise

Dirs/Scrs: Hu Siao-fung, Su Chengshou
Orig Story: Cao Yu
Prod Co: Great Wall
Cast: Hsia Moon, Fu Che, Chiao Chuang, Tong Na, Betty Loh Ti
1956 | B&W | Digital File | Cantonese (Dubbed) | 100min

Often regarded as one of the greatest Chinese playwrights of the 20th century, Cao Yu wrote Sunrise in 1936, a play that is now canonical in Chinese literature. This adaptation by Great Wall stars Hsia Moon, the studio’s ‘Crown Princess’, in a role that marks a departure from her usual portrayals of virtuous women.

In the film, Hsia plays a socialite who thrives in the nightlife, kept as a courtesan by a wealthy banker while mingling with high society and gang leaders alike. Her childhood sweetheart (Fu Che), who once knew her as an innocent student in their hometown, reappears in the hopes of rescuing her from the morally corrupt world she now inhabits. Although he offers her a chance to marry and escape, she struggles to leave behind the material comforts and status she has grown accustomed to. Despite her attempts to save a young girl (Betty Loh Ti) from prostitution, her struggle to free herself from her own hollow existence ultimately ends in failure.

Directed by Hu Siao-fung and Su Chengshou, this adaptation emphasises the moral conflict between wealth and virtue, portraying Hsia Moon’s character with less obsessiveness than in the original play. While exposing the decadence of the upper class of the period, the film also explores the timeless themes of human greed and the pursuit of fame and fortune.

Sunrise is a remarkable portrait of human nature and the social ills of its time, but its appeal remains timeless. This classic Chinese drama is part of the ‘Appreciation of Chinese Literary Classics Series’, and this film adaptation is suitable for students studying Chinese Literature.

Courtesy of Sil-Metropole Organisation Limited

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