The Ancient Beauty, Mang Lai-kwun

The Ancient Beauty, Mang Lai-kwun

Dir: Chan Pei
Scr: Ho Kwun
Prod Co: Jincheng
Cast: Sit Kok-sin, Chow Kwun-ling, Lui Yu, Leung So-kam, Sit Kok-fei
1949 | B&W | DCP (Digitised from 35mm) | Cantonese | 84min

Mang Lai-kwun, a palace comedy cherished by audiences all over China, has been adapted into film in different dialects. This is a talent-studded production, with opera superstar Sit Kok-sin playing the Emperor who presides over the palatial frolics, flanked by famed actress Chow Kwun-ling as the titled character, masquerading as a man most of the time. Much laughter is generated by the transgender feat, not to mention subtle challenges to the patriarchal order represented by the Emperor's court. The film is directed by the always proficient Chan Pei, effectively orchestrating the complex web of drama.

The image and sound quality of the original 35mm sole print is short of ideal, we appreciate your understanding.

Date Time Venue
4/10/2020 (Sun) 2:00pm  Cinema, Hong Kong Film Archive

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