A review by kaimiguei
Raise the Red Lantern: Three Novellas by Su Tong

dark reflective tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

I heartily enjoyed the three novellas, but perhaps it is important to note that I come from a Chinese background. I would imagine western audiences (for whom this book was translated, I assume, hence the English language ok now I’m just being sarcastic) would have a harder time digesting the text, as Chinese culture is so different. The strong imagery and character portrayal masterfully symbolizes the condition of life in 1930s China. If you care to look between the lines, each and every scene opens a window to what life was like for people back then. Particularly, the novellas explores the relationship between man and woman, rich and poor, power and hopelessness, lust and life. The movie is awesome too! I took joy in noticing the differences and similarities, and was glad that the movie represented the original rather well.