The Shadowless Tower – Xin Baiqing, Huang Yao
The Shadowless Tower is a drama film written and directed by Zhang Lu, starring Xin Baiqing, Huang Yao, Tian Zhuangzhuang, Nan Ji, Li Qinqin and Wang Hongwei.
The film tells the story of Gu Wentong, a middle-aged man, and his ambiguous relationship with Ouyang Wenhui, a young photographer, which unravels their complex conflicts with their fathers, lovers, and egos.
Details
English Title: The Shadowless Tower
Chinese Title: 白塔之光
Other Titles: Der schattenlose Turm
Genre: Drama, Family, Life
Duration: 144 min.
Director: Zhang Lu
Writer: Zhang Lu
Released Date: 2023-10-27
Boradcast Website: -
Cast
Synopsis
In his middle age, Gu Wentong, who used to write poetry, turned into an internet food blogger. After his divorce, he sent his daughter to live with his sister and brother-in-law, while he chose to live alone in the hutongs of Beijing.
His father, Gu Yunlai, was sent to a labor reeducation camp when he was five years old. His mother cast him aside, and from that point on, he disappeared from their lives. One day, Gu Wentong learned by chance from his brother-in-law that his father had been living alone in Beidaihe. He would visit Beijing twice a year, just to catch a glimpse of his children from a distance. Although curious and longing to see his father, Gu Wentong lacked the courage to face the man who had "gone astray."
Gu Wentong's work partner was the young photographer Ouyang Wenhui. They often met near the White Pagoda Temple to explore restaurants and taverns in the Beijing area. As they got to know each other better, their relationship became occasionally romantic and secretive.
When he learned that Ouyang Sheng lived in Beidaihe, it provided Gu Wentong with the opportunity to visit the place. The trip to Beidaihe made Gu Wentong feel as if he had discovered his father's shadow within himself — as a father, as a son, as a partner. He began to reevaluate his life.
People may drift apart, but the White Pagoda will always stand there, bearing witness to their decisions and regrets.
Reviews
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2020-12-01
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