| Overview: | Who wants to marry a millionaire? On modern-day American television, it's a bad joke, but in 1920's China, it's deadly serious business. The rich and powerful Chen already has three wives; spending the night with him is less about sex than status, and all three want the privileges that come with it. A red lantern signifies his choice of mate for the evening. The wives are not happy when the young and beautiful Songlian (Gong Li) becomes Chen's fourth wife (her father has died and she must put aside her dream of completing her education so as to secure her future). In fact, each of the wives, as well as at least one servant girl, must deal with shattered dreams. All of them scheme to gain a favored position in the household. Director Zhang Yimou has crafted a memorably beautiful film, told at a measured pace and with heartrending effect. The vivid and colorful imagery will leave a lasting impression, and the themes that are explored will touch a wide variety of viewers both young and old.
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