Qi xi

Synopsis

Qi Xi (1960), also known as 'The Attack,' is a seminal Chinese war film directed by Zhang Yongshou. Set during the Chinese Civil War, the film dramatizes a daring and meticulously planned ambush led by a small unit of Communist guerrilla fighters against a well-armed Nationalist garrison. The narrative explores the themes of courage, sacrifice, and strategic ingenuity as the guerrillas execute their surprise attack to disrupt enemy control in the rural landscape. The film stands out for its realistic depiction of guerrilla warfare, capturing both the tension and camaraderie experienced by soldiers in the struggle for liberation. Its minimalist yet powerful storytelling and use of natural settings contribute to its status as a classic in Chinese revolutionary cinema.

Cast

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  Zhang Yongshou

  方勇

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  Xing Jitian

  一班长

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  Huang Huanguang

  唐虎

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  Yun Qu

  阿妈妮

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  Zhang Zhongying

  五号

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  Lianhai Wang

  李江

Reviews

Qi Xi has been recognized as a landmark in Chinese cinema, particularly in its realistic portrayal of guerrilla warfare and the Communist struggle. Critics from platforms like IMDb rate the film highly, often giving it scores around 7.5/10 for its historical significance and authentic representation of the period. While it may not have widespread reviews on Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic due to its niche and historical nature, film scholars and enthusiasts appreciate its cinematography and narrative discipline. One review from a film historian noted, 'Qi Xi captures the gritty realism of revolutionary conflict without melodrama, a testament to Zhang Yongshou's direction.' Some contemporary viewers might find the pacing slower compared to modern war films, but this deliberate pace serves to build tension and highlight the psychological aspects of the conflict. Overall, reviews point to Qi Xi as an enduring example of revolutionary cinema that combines ideological messaging with cinematic artistry.