Red Sorghum

Synopsis

Set in China during the Second Sino-Japanese War, Red Sorghum tells the story of a young woman named Jiu'er who is forced into an arranged marriage with a leprous winemaker. Despite the challenging circumstances, she learns to navigate the complexities of love, betrayal, and resilience in a tumultuous time. The lush sorghum fields become a backdrop for the unfolding drama, symbolizing both the beauty and harshness of life. As the characters grapple with their fates, the film weaves together themes of tradition, passion, and sacrifice against the backdrop of a war-torn landscape.

Cast

• 

  Gong Li

  Jiu'er

• 

  Jiang Wen

  Yu

• 

  Teng Rujun

  Uncle Luohan

• Liu Ji

  Jiu'er's Son

• Qian Ming

  Jiu'er's Grandmother

• 

  Ji Chunhua

  Sanpao

Reviews

Red Sorghum has received critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling and visually stunning cinematography. Variety praised the film, calling it 'a sumptuous melodrama with a tangible sense of panorama and a heightened sensuality.' The New York Times commended Gong Li's captivating performance, noting her ability to convey both vulnerability and strength. Rotten Tomatoes gave the film an 85% approval rating, highlighting its engaging narrative and evocative visuals. IMDb users have rated Red Sorghum 7.3/10, with many praising its emotional depth and historical authenticity. Overall, the film has been lauded for its artful direction and compelling exploration of love and survival in a time of turmoil.