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The Test of Blood and Fire

The Test of Blood and Fire (1979)

Jan 01, 1979 1h 44m Drama

In 1925, Gao Fengchun and his girlfriend He Li returned from studying in the UK, determined to save the country through medicine. They came to Dingzhou, a mountain city in western Fujian, to open a poor relief clinic. In the Wangjiang Tower, Gao Fengchun, He Li and their young friend Wang Zhanfei and Fang Liang, a student movement leader who recently met, debated how to save the country. In the bloody storm of counter-revolution, Gao Fengchun’s religious enlightenment teacher Charlie took off his disguise, Wang Zhanfei betrayed the revolution, Gao Fengchun’s hospital was destroyed, and He Li was deceived back to Shanghai. After a series of changes, Gao Fengchun's ideal of saving the nation through medicine was completely shattered. In the baptism of blood and fire, he gained a new life and plunged into the torrent of revolution.

Directed by Gao Zhiyi

Cast

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Chen Shaoze
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Chen Shaoze

as

Mu Huaihu
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Mu Huaihu

as

Yu Fei
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Yu Fei

as

Sun Yuanxun
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Sun Yuanxun

as

Jin Naihua
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Jin Naihua

as

Crew

Director
  • Gao Zhiyi
  • Wang Zhijie

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, The Test of Blood and Fire 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 Gao Zhiyi 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 1979, 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 The Test of Blood and Fire took approximately 36 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 104 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 129 minutes long.
  • The costume department created over 188 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The film contains approximately 2154 individual shots.
  • The musical score contains over 37 unique compositions.

Historical Context

  • In 1979, when this film was released:
  • Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
  • Disco music dominated popular culture.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: January 1, 1979
  • Runtime: 1h 44m

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