Ruined City is a Chinese drama film set in the bustling city of Chongqing in the 1940s. It tells the story of two brothers, Wu Fang and Wu Fei, who are trying to navigate their way through a rapidly changing society during a time of great political upheaval. The film begins with an introduction to Wu Fang, a successful businessman who is seen as a hero in the local community. He has a loving family, a beautiful wife, and a successful career. However, his world is turned upside down when he is falsely accused of embezzlement and is forced to flee the city in order to avoid arrest.
Meanwhile, Wu Fei is a down-on-his-luck musician who is struggling to make ends meet. He has a passion for music and dreams of making it big one day, but his lack of success leaves him feeling disillusioned and bitter. When he hears that his brother has been framed, he decides to seek revenge on the man who he believes is responsible for ruining his brother's life.
As the story unfolds, we see how the brothers' lives are intertwined and how their experiences shape their perspectives on the world around them. We also learn about the political climate of the time, with the Japanese occupying Chongqing and the Chinese government struggling to retain control of the city.
The film is directed by Li Han-hsiang and stars Huang Ju, Dong Yongzhong, and Wu Yue. The performances are strong throughout, with Huang Ju delivering a particularly impressive portrayal of a man who has lost everything he holds dear. The cinematography is also excellent, capturing the grit and grime of the city and the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
One of the film's strengths is its exploration of the theme of brotherhood. The relationship between Wu Fang and Wu Fei is at the heart of the story, and we see how their bond is tested and strengthened over the course of the film. The film also explores the concept of loyalty, with characters having to make difficult choices about which side they are on and who they can trust.
Another aspect of the film that stands out is its depiction of the city of Chongqing. The filmmakers have done an excellent job of creating an authentic sense of time and place, and the city itself becomes a character in the story. The bustling markets, crowded streets, and imposing architecture all contribute to the film's sense of realism and immersion.
Overall, Ruined City is a powerful and engaging film that offers a fascinating glimpse into a turbulent period of Chinese history. It is a story of loss, betrayal, and ultimately, redemption, and it is sure to leave a lasting impact on viewers.
