The Dutiful Daughter Chu-chu

Dir: Chun Man-to (aka Chan Wan)
Scr: Man Tsi
Prod Co: Chi Leun
Cast: Connie Chan Po-chu, Lam Kar-sing, Lan Chi Pak
1966 | B&W | Digital File | Cantonese | Chinese Lyrics | 109 min

Connie Chan Po-chu, apprentice to Cantonese opera master Yam Kim-fai, plays a young novice with no prior experience in the art form in The Dutiful Daughter Chu-chu. Her character, Chu-chu, is forced to disguise herself as a Japanese acrobat to support her mentally ill mother. After meeting Cantonese opera actor Wong (Lam Kar-sing) at the amusement park, she is inspired to learn the art and hone her skills as an opera performer. The King of Wusheng, Lan Chi Pak, makes a rare and refreshing appearance in modern attire in the role of Wong’s teacher Pak, whom he plays with aplomb as a strict teacher and consummate professional. Much of the film focus on Chu-chu’s training under the tutelage of Wong and Pak, which are both realistic and compelling in their portrayal of how this cultural tradition is preserved and passed on across generations. Beyond his role as Wong, Lam also served as the film’s operatic director, ensuring the authenticity of its opera performances. The Dutiful Daughter Chu-chu captures the magnetic charm and artistic essence of Cantonese opera.

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