The Story of Qui Ju Movie Review

Peasant Qui Ju (Gong Li) is expecting a baby, but nonetheless fights for justice when her husband Liu (Liu Pei Qui) is kicked in the groin by their village head (Lei Lao Sheng). Arbitrators say the chief must compensate Qui Ju's husband, but she wants him to say he's sorry for what he's done, even when it appears that her relationship with her husband is being damaged by her tireless efforts on his behalf. This well-directed look at Chinese village life benefits from powerful acting by Gong Li and from stunningly real cinematography, occasionally achieved with a concealed camera. AKA: Qui Ju Da Guansi.

1991 (PG) 100m/C CH Gong Li, Lei Lao Sheng, Liu Pei Qu, Ge Zhi Jun, Ye Jun, Yang Liu Xia, Zhu Qanging, Cui Luowen, Yank Huiquin, Wang Jianfa, Lin Zi; D: Zhang Yimou; W: Liu Heng; C: Chi Xiaonin, Yu Xaioqun; M: Zhao Jiping. National Society of Film Critics Awards ‘93: Best Foreign Film; Venice Film Festival ‘92: Best Actress (Li), Best Film; Nominations: Independent Spirit Awards ‘94: Best Foreign Film. VHS, LV