director: Wang Liang
starring: Wang Liang ˇ Hong Chen ˇ Qin Xue ˇ Li
Bei-Lei ˇ Zeng Shuai
Here's something of
an oddity from Mainland China where supernatural horror films are still
outlawed. As a result, the fantasy element is played down [although still
important to the plot] and tempered within the guise of being a "more
acceptable" black comedy. The story deals with female rebel Cheng
Xiao-die who attempts to challenge the corrupt Republic of China but is
under investigation for a bomb threat. Shortly before her upcoming marriage
- while wearing her wedding dress, a beautiful red cheongsam - she commits
suicide by hanging, an act that also levels a curse against anyone who
wears the dress in the future. Through the years, this red cheongsam is
passed down through various families until it falls into the hands of
contemporary engaged couple Wang Zeya and his fiancé Xia Xue plus
her close friend Yaru. The curse is overpowering and everyone is in danger.
This is a debut project
from Wang Liang (who also stars here as Wang Zeya). He would go on to
write and direct SEVENTH
SENSE: THE ROAD BACK the following year. That film would also
star Zeng Shuai, the actress who plays Yaru here. The main actress, Hong
Chen (playing dual roles of Cheng Xiao-die and Xia Xue) is a more seasoned
performer, best known for the role of Lady Gau in Donnie Yen's LOST
BLADESMAN.
A
Chinese film with Chinese and English subtitles; original widescreen
format, 85 minutes,
ALL REGION NTSC, playable on any American machine; extras include theatrical
trailers
