Farewell My Concubine (1993) Review in 2025
Farewell My Concubine is a historical drama film set in 1920s-1980s China, exploring the complex relationships between three Peking Opera performers.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for family viewing due to mature themes, violence, and explicit content.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of historical drama, romance, and epic storytelling. It's a cinematic experience that will leave you moved and inspired.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film follows the lives of two Peking Opera performers, Duan Xiaolou and Shu Tong, who become embroiled in a complicated love triangle with a powerful opera master, Master Four. As the years pass, their relationships are tested by politics, war, and personal demons.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is epic in scope, spanning decades and exploring themes of love, loss, and identity. The narrative is complex, but engaging and emotionally resonant.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with outstanding performances from the entire cast. Leslie Cheung and Gong Li are particularly impressive, bringing depth and nuance to their characters.
characters9.00/10
The characters are multidimensional and well-developed, with complex motivations and backstories. The performances are outstanding, particularly from Leslie Cheung and Gong Li.
direction9.00/10
The direction is masterful, with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the characters and their emotions. Chen Kaige's vision is clear and compelling.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with beautiful shots of the Peking Opera performances and the Chinese landscapes. However, some scenes feel a bit overlong.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Epic storytelling, complex characters, outstanding performances, stunning cinematography.
Cons
Some scenes feel a bit overlong, the pacing can be slow at times.
Notable Quotes
"I would rather die than betray my art."
"Love is a many-splendored thing, but it is also a many-splendored pain."
"The Peking Opera is not just a form of entertainment, but a way of life."
