Cast
View AllSenchang Yang
as Hu Xiao
Gao Zheng
as Company commander
Cao Duo
as Instructor
Qi Wang
as Platoon lead Hong
Yongping Sun
as Guocai Yu
Gongmin Yang
as Chunsheng Yuan
Baoluo Li
as Squad leader Sun
Jun Wang
as Recon squad leader
Ruiling Gu
as Chun
Ke Chen
as Grandpa
Xuepeng Fan
as Granny
Jingkang Li
as Zhou's Servant
Cheng Zhi
as Chief of staff of enemy
Shan Liang
as Si Hu
Man Xu
as Fourth concubine
Crew
Director
- Long You
Writer
- Qiang Wu
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Cowboy Joining the Army 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 Long You 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 1958, 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 Cowboy Joining the Army took approximately 22 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 83 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 120 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The costume department created over 183 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1958, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: June 1, 1958
- Runtime: 1h 23m