“To Live,” directed by Zhang Yimou, is a poignant Chinese drama released in 1994. Based on Yu Hua’s novel, the film chronicles the trials and tribulations of Fugui and his family through decades of socio-political upheaval in China. It is a heart-wrenching tale of resilience, survival, and the human spirit.
Her constant worries about her family’s future foreshadow the coming hardships.
Character Dynamics
The relationship between Fugui and Jiazhen evolves from one of distance and resentment to one of deep mutual respect and support. Literary devices such as dialogue and irony are used to show how their bond strengthens in the face of adversity. The contrasting personalities of their children, Youqing and Fengxia, illustrate the diverse impacts of political turmoil on the younger generation.
This scene uses shadow puppetry to symbolize Fugui’s loss of control over his life. The puppets, manipulated by unseen hands, represent the characters’ struggles against larger socio-political forces.
This scene employs irony as the Communists’ arrival, promising liberation, brings new forms of suffering for the family. The visual contrast between the jubilant soldiers and the fearful villagers enhances the ironic undertone.
The sewing machine symbolizes hope and modernization. This scene uses close-up shots and ambient sound to emphasize its importance to the family’s survival.
Conclusion
To test your understanding of the literary devices used in “To Live,” take this interactive quiz!
Interactive Quiz
1. What does the shadow puppet symbolize in the film?
