Suo Lin Nang (a.k.a. The Unicorn Pouch)

Director: Li Tao
Cast: Su Fengli, Wang Zhiping, Zuo Yuqiang
2011 | Colour | Shaanxi dialect | Chi Subtitles | 113min | Qin Opera

The signature piece of Cheng Yanqiu, one of the "Four Greatest Dan Actors" in Beijing opera, Suo Lin Nang was first written in 1940 and later adapted by other operatic genres. It tells of a rich bride Xue, who gives generously to the poor and is in turn saved from misery when calamity strikes. Unlike the original Beijing opera which exudes a finesse typical of the sonorous, lilting Cheng Sound, Qin opera is known for its flamboyance and rustic charm. Despite heavy shades of its predecessor, this Qin opera has a flavour entirely its own, such as bangqiang (ensemble singing behind-the-scenes) and the elaborate stunts the poor father and daughter perform to express their gratitude for Xue's kindness. While Xue's maid is often played by a male chou-sang (clown) in Beijing opera, this version features a finely-groomed huadan (exuberant female lead), a design closer perhaps to modern-day sensibilities.

Print courtesy of the China Film Archive

#Post-screening talk with Li Tao in Mandarin

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