Reflections of Time

A Widow’s Tears

Dir/Scr: Zhu Shilin
Co-Dirs: Long Ling, Chan Ching-po
Orig Story: Si Tak (aka Ko Hung)
Prod Co: Great Wall
Cast: Hsia Moon, Bow Fong, Liu Su, Betty Loh Ti, Cao Yan
1956 | B&W | Digital File | Cantonese (Dubbed) | 106min

Ko Hung, a prolific Hong Kong writer active from the 1940s to the 1970s, excelled across multiple genres, each under a different pen name. While best known for his social commentary as ‘Sam So’, he also wrote many widely circulated romance novels under the name ‘Si Tak’. The novel on which this film is based was originally serialised in the New Evening Post before being adapted for the screen by renowned director Zhu Shilin, celebrated for his nuanced depictions of complex family dynamics and societal issues.

The story follows Fong Mei (Hsia Moon), a young woman whose life is shattered when her husband tragically dies in an accident on their second wedding anniversary while getting her a gift. Already devastated, she faces cruel accusations from her mother-in-law, who blames her for bringing bad luck to the family. Fong Mei’s emotional turmoil deepens when a well-meaning family friend’s concern sparks rumours of impropriety. With suspicion and false accusations mounting, Fong Mei decides to leave her husband’s family, breaking free to reclaim her own path.

Zhu’s adaptation offers a sensitive portrayal of a widow’s grief while subtly critiquing the social oppression faced by women during that era. Hsia Moon delivers a captivating performance as Fong Mei, bringing emotional depth to her character’s journey through guilt, grief, and self-autonomy.

Courtesy of Sil-Metropole Organisation Limited

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