Backdrop preview China Dolls backdrop
China Dolls

China Dolls (1992)

Jan 01, 1992 1h 31m Comedy Crime Drama

Tong catches Chiu attempting to rape his wife May (Amy Yip). They scuffle and Tong shoots Chiu dead with Chiu's gun. They flee but Tong is killed in a shootout with police. May begs an officer to take her child, since if he is repatriated he'll have a horrible life. So, the infant son ends up in Hong Kong separated from his mother. Six years pass and May is a hotel maid then gets forced into prostitution. She longs to see her son, who is now a young boy, maybe to fully reunite with him.

Directed by Yeung Chi Kin

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Yeung Chi Kin

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, China Dolls examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Yeung Chi Kin brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1992, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of China Dolls took approximately 31 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 91 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 129 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
  • The screenplay went through 5 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • The film contains approximately 1631 individual shots.

Historical Context

  • In 1992, when this film was released:
  • Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
  • The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While China Dolls shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Se7en, which focuses more on action than character development, China Dolls subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Moulin Rouge! and 2046 explore similar territory, China Dolls stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: January 1, 1992
  • Runtime: 1h 31m

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