Screening: Women, Demon, Human

The Chinese film "Women, Demon, Human" will be screened University of Chicago.

Seen as the “first genuine feminist film” in China, Women, Demon, Human is based on the life of famous opera performer Pei Yanling, whose career is noted for her acclaimed portrayal of male roles, especially the demon-ghost Zhong Kui in “Zhong Kui Marries Off His Sisiter”钟馗嫁妹. Born into the world of the Chinese Opera Company and with her personal world marked by trauma, Qiu Yun, a young professional actress, constructs her identity out of stage roles. Although Qiu s career brings wealth and fame, it is attained only through considerable struggle against a misogynistic system and an unhappy personal life. Directed by female director Huang Shuqin, the film has a unique point of view, exquisite mise-en-scene, and carefully conceptualized framing. It explores a world that traverses fantasy, gender roles, subjectivity and psychological mystery. It won Golden Rooster Awards for best screenplay and supporting actor.