In this film, which is the first of two parts, the incomparable Lin Dai plays Tang Qi and Kwan Shan plays Xing Ya. He is infatuated with her, and why not? Ms. Dai was a beautiful young lady, she lights up the screen. She also committed suicide before the wrap of part 2 (this film was released separately in two parts, owing to its 4 hour length). Even 40 years plus on, it is such a massive shame Ms. Dai killed herself. Qi and Xing play lovers whose families are opposed to being together. The film is set during the Japanese occupation of World War 2, and that thread in mostly in the background for this part. You are mostly dealing with the forbidden love here. The colors of this film are vibrant, the film has a richness that is very appealing. Various things happen to Qi, and the film is very melodramatic, a Shaw Brothers trademark. Since there is a part 2, the film doesn't resolve itself here. One minor complaint is that Ms. Dai and Mr. Shan are older in years than their roles, especially Mr. Shan. However, if you like a forbidden love story, you could do a lot worse. One caution: If you buy the DVD, don't watch the Special Feature interviews before watching part 2. One of the interviewees gave away the ending. Too late for me, doesn't have to be for you. Based on this first installment of this film, I'm ready for part 2.
