The Influence of the Truth of the Characters on Chinese Films in the 1990s: A Case Study of Farewell My Concubine

Abstract

The 1990s represent a unique period in Chinese history, during which the characters’ real-life experiences have a significant impact on both the audience's perception of the characters and their aesthetics, debate and criticism of social reality, and, to some extent, the long-term trajectory of Chinese cinema. This period coincides with the release of Farewell My Concubine in this decade. Under the special background of the times, it tells the story of Duan Xiaolou and Cheng Dieyi. The story, featuring a diverse cast of characters from various social classes, can be regarded as a compilation of humanistic traditions in the 1990s. It encompasses critiques of feudalism, social turmoil, the struggle for survival, and a compassionate exploration of human nature. Additionally, it establishes a solid cinematic groundwork for future investigations into the social context of this era. This story reveals a concealed crisis of survival within a seemingly peaceful social setting, bringing together protagonists with diverse personalities. This paper employs discourse analysis and audio-visual language analysis research methods to examine the impact of character truths on Chinese films from the 1990s. Using the film Farewell My Concubine as an example, the research reveals the personality truths through each person’s unique and profound character truth.