Cast
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Chi Cao
as Li Cunxin - adult
Chengwu Guo
as Li Cunxin - teenage
Wen Bin Huang
as Li Cunxin - boy
Joan Chen
as Niang
Bruce Greenwood
as Ben Stevenson
Amanda Schull
as Elizabeth Mackey
Kyle MacLachlan
as Charles Foster
Jack Thompson
as US Federal Judge
Camilla Vergotis
as Mary McKendry
Madeleine Eastoe
as Lori
Steven Heathcote
as Bobby Cordner
Aden Young
as Dilworth
Wang Shuangbao
as
Barbara Bush
as Herself (archive footage) (uncredited)
George H. W. Bush
as Himself (archive footage) (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Bruce Beresford
Producer
- Jane Scott
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Mao’s Last Dancer examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Bruce Beresford 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 2009, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Mao’s Last Dancer took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $25.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 117 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 162 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 270 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The musical score contains over 45 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2009, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Mao’s Last Dancer shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Honey, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Mao’s Last Dancer subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Moulin Rouge and Heaven's Gate explore similar territory, Mao’s Last Dancer stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 1, 2009
- Runtime: 1h 57m
- Budget: $25,000,000
- Revenue: $23,914,731
Where to Watch
