The Conqueror
(ZHENGFUZHE) ((CHINESE))
Read other reviews about this film
In "The Conqueror," well-established Chinese director Teng Wenji relates the story of the White Lotus Society, a rebellious religious group that fought against the authorities during the 18th century. Film's intermittently powerful tale is marred by unexciting direction and conventional visual style that bring its melodramatic elements too much to the surface. The saturation of Western film markets with historical Chinese sagas over the last decade might jeopardize commercial prospects, though on its own terms, the movie is highly accessible and often enjoyable.
Like any number of other Chinese films, "The Conqueror" is a politically relevant story that takes place in the past but is meant to comment on the present.
Set in 1804, film depicts the unprising of a Buddhist caste against the oppressive Manchu rulers of the Qing Dynasty. Based on the novel "Exile," story begins with the execution of their leader, Kang, and his men, while they defiantly -- and peacefully -- pray in the central square. The only survivors are some 56 old men, women and children; all the boys aged 8 to 15 are castrated.
Narrative follows Kang's wife, Xiumei (Chen Hong), and her conflict with Liu Jiesan (Wei Zi), commander of the Qing army escort, during the nine years it took to subdue the insurrection. Commander Liu executes his orders reluctantly, as it's clear he not only respects the cult's elderly leader, but is also romantically attracted to the beautiful Xiumei.
Saga is structured as a turbulent journey with all kinds of hardships and obstacles. Indeed, to preserve the Society's last offspring, the pregnant Xiumei endures torment, humiliation and attempted rape. However, as the movie provides enough clues to suggest that eventually she and her baby survived, all that is left for the audience to do is observe how she did it. Still, there are some poignant moments, as when praying group members are shot in cold blood, or when an 8-year-old-boy is castrated and later dies of high fever.
Chief problem is pic's lack of genuine epic scale and unified vision; after a half-hour, tale just chronicles one ordeal after another. Strong performances could have elevated the proceedings above the routine, but Chen Hong is just a pretty, elegant player whose acting lacks depth.
Despite these shortcomings, however, "The Conqueror" is often engaging and its anti-authoritarian, human rights message is resonant for audiences in China as well as those under other repressive regimes.
Camera (color), Zhi Lei, Zhang Li; editor, Li Suzhuang; music, Chang Huihong; art direction, Yang Gang; costume design, Yang Shuai, Hou Chuangjin; sound, Zhang Wen. Reviewed at Moscow Film Festival (competing), July 23, 1995. Running time: 98 MIN.
Variety is striving to present the most thorough review database. To report inaccuracies in review credits, please click here. We do not currently list below-the-line credits, although we hope to include them in the future. Please note we may not respond to every suggestion. Your assistance is appreciated.
