Cast
View AllTian Yi
as Infant Tietou
Wenyao Zhang
as Young Tietou
Xiaoman Chen
as Teenage Tietou
Lü Liping
as Chen Shujuan
Pu Cunxin
as Lin Shaolong
Li Xuejian
as Uncle Li
Ping Zong
as Chen Shusheng
Hong Zhang
as Zhu Ying
Chu Shuanzhong
as Chen Shuyan
Song Xiaoying
as Sis
Liu Yanjin
as Shujuan's Mother
Li Bin
as Granny
Guo Donglin
as Lin Yunwei
Zhang Lu
as Mrs. Lan
Shumin Wu
as Street Committee Officer
Crew
Director
- Tian Zhuangzhuang
Writer
- Cui Jiajun
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Blue Kite 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 Tian Zhuangzhuang 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 1994, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Blue Kite took approximately 19 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 141 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 169 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
- The musical score contains over 47 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1994, when this film was released:
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Blue Kite shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Right Stuff, which focuses more on action than character development, The Blue Kite offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like House of Flying Daggers and Horúci dych explore similar territory, The Blue Kite stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: February 2, 1994
- Runtime: 2h 21m
