A Red Spot is adapted from a Beijing opera classic which has also inspired adaptations in other regional operas. Fong Yim-fun and opera star Mak Bing-wing play loving newlyweds forced to separate when he joins the army in place of his uncle. His aunt (Tam Lan-hing) plots with her nephew (Fung Fung) to kill the husband to usurp his fortune and wife. Chiu (Fong's character) staunchly refuses to remarry and is reduced to homelessness with her mother-in-law, begging for a living in harsh conditions. The husband manages to survive and returns as a war hero. While giving alms to the poor, he chances on Chiu, recognising the red birthmark on her palm. Fong is completely at home playing the virtuous, dignified woman, unwaveringly loyal to her late husband, and unfailingly filial to her mother-in-law. Fong's performance is perfectly matched by the versatile Tam's vivacious turn as the villain and Mak is brilliant in both dramatic and action moments, his effective expressions in emotional scenes and acrobatic agility in combat set pieces like lance fights ample demonstrations of his Cantonese opera training. The scene ‘Herding Sheep on a Snowy Ridge', with its bitter wintry setting, is powerfully gripping, painting a piteous picture of profound suffering.

A Red Spot had not been shown in theatres for years. With the Archive's digitisation project, the film can finally be shared with the audience.

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