HK MOVIE

The Story of Qiu Ju (1992)

The Story of Qiu Ju (1992) (MM SUB), directed by Zhang Yimou and starring Gong Li, is a thought-provoking drama about justice, perseverance, and the clash between rural traditions and modern legal systems in China. The film follows Qiu Ju (Gong Li), a determined peasant woman who embarks on an exhausting legal battle after her husband is assaulted by a village chief. Despite facing bureaucratic obstacles and social resistance, she relentlessly seeks what she believes to be fair compensation, embodying resilience and moral integrity. Shot in a neorealistic style, often using hidden cameras in real locations, the film captures everyday life in rural China with authenticity. Gong Li delivers a powerful, understated performance, portraying Qiu Ju’s quiet but unwavering determination. Unlike Zhang Yimou’s earlier visually striking period dramas, this film opts for a more restrained, documentary-like aesthetic. The Story of Qiu Ju is a compelling social critique wrapped in a simple but deeply resonant narrative, making it one of Zhang Yimou’s most poignant films.