Original subtitles

Subtitles by: [ PAz ]

The Blue Kite

This place is called Dry Well Lane...

because there's a well here that's always dry.

I grew up here.

Shujuan! Shujuan!

Shujuan, it's come! All our furniture is here.

Hi Liu Yunwei. We've put you a lot of trouble.

- So this is the room you've rented? - Not bad.

There's still some work to be done.

Shujuan, come!

This part here is done.

Just this bit to go.

So, you're all moved in?

- Mrs. Lan, how are you? - Congratulations on your marriage!

- This is our landlady, Mrs. Lan. - Hello.

- And these are all my comrades. - Hello.

Fixed the date yet?

March 8.

- An even number. Good fortune. - What a pretty jianzhi you've made.

It's a gift to put in their window.

Listen!

"The secretary of the USSR Communist Party..."

Joseph Stalin...

Who's this Stalin person?

"passed away at 9:50 p.m. Moscow time..."

"on March 5, 1953"

Mum told me how because of Stalin's death,

she and Dad had to put off their wedding for 10 days,

and so my birthday came later as well.

FATHER

Everyone's ready?

We're about to start.

Shaolong... Shujuan, you stand here.

Quiet everyone!

The wedding ceremony,

of Lin Shaolong and Chen Shujuan, has begun.

First, pay your respects to Chairman Mao!

Oh it's Guodong! What kept you?

Guodong, hurry up, sign here.

Now, the bride and groom will perform something for us.

On the peaceful soil of our homeland...

Life gets better everyday.

Lofty ideals for the young...

and youthfulness for the old.

Our workers love labour...

and production is soaring.

Te peasants work together...

and harvest ever more.

We are peaceful loving...

and never invade others...

but we don't give peace to invaders or bad people.

- Please Sis, sit down. - Don't be so polite!

Hasn't the hotpot come to a boil yet?

- Help yourselves. - Chears.

Shujuan, why aren't you wearing that dress I made for you?

Sis, Ma wants me to put on that red cheungsam.

- She's even embroidered a big flower. - Looks pretty.

The hotpot?

- Shuyan, go check on it. - Ma, please sit down.

Shaolong, try these! I made it myself.

Sis is an excelent cook.

Here's the hotpot.

- Shaolong, eat! - Eat while it's hot.

Shaolong!

- Drink. - He shouldn't drink.

- Enjoy yourselves! - It's now or never!

Shuyan... Shaolong...

your wedding today...

reminds me of the day...

I was married in Yan'an.

The comrades, cleared out...

one of the cave dwellings for us.

We each moved our bags inside...

and there was a bit of a party.

Just a few days later he was sent to the front lines.

He lost his life in battle.

You are the new China.

You must carry on the glorious revolutionary tradition,

and make a contribution to our motherland.

Enough already! Don't let the food get cold.

All right. Come on, bottoms up!

- Shaolong... - Shaolong...

A toast to your mother-in-law.

To you, Ma!

Cheers.

Hey, Shaolong...

Look here!

This is the cheungsam Ma made for me.

Yes?

Looks great.

It's a bit much to wear out on the street, don't you think?

No... I like it.

Shujuan... lower your head.

Hey... what are you trying to do?

In the past, brides always wore a red veil.

I don't want.

Come on. Look how well this matches your dress.

Please do it for me.

All right.

Who's there? Come in!

How dare you?

Put ​​me down! Right now!

What would people think if they saw us?

Let ​​me down.

Oh dear, I've dropped you.

I... was dizzy.

Spin the other way to cure it.

Really? Then let's try.

Okay, let's go.

Here we go. Better?

Anyone home?

That's enough.

Hey... who is it?

Coming.

Oh come in. Miss Lan, please come in.

Do you still need the gramophone?

Come on in. Have a sit!

I'll carry this over for you.

No need. it's only a few steps.

- Be careful. - Get some rest.

Oh no, look where he's peeing!

I'm giving you back to your mum.

You'll go through this too in a few years from now.

"I was born after Mum and Dad were married just a year".

Lots of aunties and uncles suggested names for me,

but I was named Lin Dayu [Heavy Rain]

cause it rained the day I was born.

"Weijun's Granny didn't like that."

She called me Tietou [Iron Head]. That way, I'd grow up strong.

What's going on?

The neighbourhood committee wants to talk to you about collectivization.

Did you say I was home?

- What a big mouth you've got. - Never mind. It's all right.

"Reform privately-owned industrial and commercial enterprises."

"A People's Daily Editorial"

"Advance towards joint ownership of shops and factories."

"In recent months, in cities throughout the country..."

"Many privately run shops have one after the other begun to..."

"complete reform the system..."

Honey...

The state's already the joint owner of the courtyard.

See... I live in in this room, and...

I've lowered everyone's rent this month.

Look... what did I tell you?

Mrs. Lan has a high level of social awareness. She is a good example.

You're right.

Don't take it personally. I'm just going down the list.

Go back to your work. Let's go! Sound the drums!

The crow flying free.

The old crow flies no more.

Circling birds cry and caw.

Little birds look for food.

Who's there? Come in.

Shusheng, it's you.

This is Zhu Ying.

- Come over here. - I've missed you to pieces!

She's a performer in the army troupe.

Have you introduced her to Ma?

Not yet. Shusheng said you and he were closest of all.

So he wanted me to meet you first.

- True? - True.

Uncle's all dirty.

Hey, you're dirty.

What happened? Have you fallen?

He stumbled when we're passing the gateway.

Really?

It's my eyes. I don't know what's wrong.

They've dug a ditch in front of No. 9. I didn't see it.

I want Auntie now!

All right, go to auntie!

Give me your hat. I'll brush it off.

- Have some tea. - Thank you.

- How have you been? Busy? - A lot.

What do you perform?

I act in plays.

We're doing "Growing up on the Battlefield."

Zhu Ying, my sister's a primary school teacher.

She's a political activist in the school.

Don't listen to him.

When I was little I really wanted to be a teacher.

It would be great to be an actress. Is your family far away?

Well, yes, they're from the south.

Not with us.

- Bye, Uncle. Bye, Aunt. - Bye!

- Go to see a eye's doctor. - Okay.

- Bye for now! - Bye!

Ma, can we sing the crow song?

- What? - The crow song.

Oh that! Okay. I'll teach you.

The crow is on the tree, The crow is flying free.

The old crow flies no more, circling birds cry and caw.

That stick's too short.

Granny! Can you bring me a bamboo pole?

- It's here. - Oh dear me!

Where are you going?

Get down from there immediately.

The kite!

Weijun... get down!

- My son! - Tietou!

Daddy, the kite!

Weijun, come on down! I'll make another for you, yes?

Hey, be careful!

Slowly, now!

- Shaolong... - Yes?

- I need to talk to you. - Hey, Weijun, hold here.

Shaolong, the district cadres said, that after collectivization...

we'd be workers, not entrepreneurs, but look at this letter from my son.

He says we can do nothing to change our status.

So... our hopes are dashed just like that?

That can't be.

Wasn't it going to depend on your actions?

Yes... but look at this letter.

Let a hundred schools of thought contend.

Help the party rectify itself.

Hey Yunwei!

Get this thing off us!

Tietou watch your step!

Hello, Granny, don't forget there's a meeting at No. 9

I'm illiterate. What do I have to do with meetings?

Anybody home? Come to No. 9 for a meeting.

Mrs. Lan, there's a meeting.

- What's it about? - The Rectification.

Put a move on! Everyone to No. 9.

On April 27th, 1957...

the Central Committee issued the following directive...

with regard to the Rectification Movement.

These two reports...

by Comrade Mao Zedong...

provide the guiding principles...

for this Rectification Movement.

While this is a solemn...

and a serious political movement...

it should clean our thoughts like a mild rain.

- Not that much for me. - Oh go on.

Guess what... those two lost books turned up!

How? We looked everywhere!

Yesterday, I skipped lunch and I finally found them...

under the desk of the head librarian, Wang.

I think old Wang is away with the fairies.

Today, we had a meeting that you two missed.

I voiced an opinion on behalf of all three of us.

What sort of opinion? Why did you not warn us?

Here are the noodles.

Shujuan, how's the Rectification going at your school?

They want every criticism of the party.

- So what did you say? - On our behalf?

Oh, just something against bureaucratism.

Shujuan, you didn't need to say anything.

But old Wang sincerely wanted us to offer our opinions.

It would be awkward not to.

- Teacher Chen! - Hey...

Hey, come on in!

- Good morning, Uncle. - Good morning.

These are my students.

She came in first in the math competition.

- Really? - Shaolong, keep an eye on that pot!

Come on... eat up.

The party wants us to speak freely. "Seek truth from facts."

Daddy... Daddy, my kite's flown away!

Doesn't matter. Daddy will make a new one for you.

- Officer Chen! - Sim.

- Come here. - Coming!

Tell me...

Once you've gone who'll take care of us?

Staying home I'll die.

- I must take revenge! - Go then...

but... you'll destroy our family.

Mother of my son,

we've been married for some years,

and I haven't given you much joy.

After you've buried my father,

Go and seek... a better life.

I married you, I'm your family now.

Ten years, twenty... I'll wait for you forever.

Father of my son, just don't forget us.

If I live, I will return.

Meu filho...

do what your mother says, okay?

My father... I can't stay for the funeral.

I'm going to avenge your death!

Daddy, Daddy!

My son!

My son...

Your father has gone to see revenge.

We've just got to get trough the hard times.

But when you'll grow up,

things will be better.

Do you see it?

Yes kiddo, i did.

Tietou, your uncle's eyes are no good.

Let's play airplanes.

Ma, take these.

Shusheng, help me move this table.

Play by yourself.

The bureau chief's only human.

They fear even to enter his office. There's nothing to be afraid of.

Afraid of what?

- Sister arrived. - He's just bragging.

Who? Shuyan?

Who else could it be?

Shuyan...

He was saying how he criticized the bureau chief.

Ma, that's what the Rectification is all about.

Everyone's into it.

You should hear what's being said.

You don't know Shuyan.

From the time he was little he's been fearless.

I remember one time when he was still in primary school,

and he had some sort of upset with Ma.

He walked all the way to Fengtai.

Ma was in tears.

Hey, what are you doing? Come to the table.

Uncle, look what I have done!

Oh no! That's my homework!

Shusheng, why weren't you looking after him.

- You were being careless! - Shujuan, it's my fault.

I was careless.

I'm sorry, uncle!

Tietou is a clever little kid.

Why didn't you come earlier?

Your eyes, have badly deteriorated.

You've got to take care of them.

Your mental state is very important.

You mustn't let yourself be angry.

or even irritable.

What I mean is try to avoid any stress.

If we can control it, we might be able to prevent total blindness.

Right.

It's no small matter. I have to tell her!

If I do go blind I'll be her problem too.

I still say... You shouldn't tell Zhu Ying yet.

It would upset her too much.

Shusheng, why don't you get a second opinion?

Maybe there's a cure.

Shujuan's right.

Try another doctor.

As for Zhu Ying, find the proper moment to tell her.

She is doing so well at work and she's about to join the party.

I fear with my eyes, I won't be able to be in the army much longer.

Shusheng... Are you a party member?

Shujuan said...

you were a great hero, as a pilot.

I earned some merit,

but I've never,

made it into the party.

I actually spoke about this recently.

I said I couldn't figure out,

why they just made me an officer,

that they don't value us as they should.

But I always feel there's something missing.

Shujuan?

What's wrong?

Mummy's crying!

Why are you crying?

Go away!

Who is crying?

I don't know what came over me.

I'm fine!

"On May 25, Lu Yuwen, of the Revolutionary Committee of the KMT,

and assistant secretary-general of the State Council,

offered unique suggestions for the Rectification Movement.

Later, he received an anonymous, threatening letter.

The writter called the safeguarding of socialism,

and defense of the Party leadership, "shameless".

He likened party members to man-eating tigers.

We should rise our guards againt such political views.

This threatening letter is a major political incident,

and a warning to the great masses of people.

Some people are using the party's Rectification Movement,

to intensify class struggle."

At Lin Shaolong's house,.

it was Liu Yunwei, Lin Shaolong and me.

Party Secretary, Sir...

I've never imagined that Liu Yunwei, was inciting us to attack the Party.

We were...

just making some suggestions.

What day was this?

It's better if you write a detailed report to me, okay?

You're full of opinions and complaints.

Don't forget you're a member of the armed forces!

Sir, it's just that I don't like dancing with the leaders.

Wouldn't it be better if I could have the time to study?

No, it's a political duty!

We only assign politically reliable comrades to such duty.

But why me every time?

Besides, I can't see how dancing serves any political purpose.

Watch your words.

You're a key member of the troupe.

And your Party membership is under consideration.

- You'd better not get too arrogant. - But sir, I...

I've heard that you've got a boyfriend.

That's a serious matter. Why haven't you told me?

But we haven't made any big decisions yet.

Whatever the truth is, let me remind you...

politics must come first.

You know...

what I'm saying.

Don't disappoint the leaders.

Chen Shuyan often expresses dissatisfaction with socialism.

He often makes reactionary statements to his classmates.

together with Guo Tiesheng and Li Naijan...

he manipulated his classmates to criticize the education chief.

They weren't just offering suggestions.

They tried to throw out the system of socialist graduation exams.

Guo Tiesheng, Li Naijian, get up there with!

Guo Tiesheng stand up straight.

Such extreme, reacting Rightist elements...

deserve merciless criticism and strong attack.

- Say hello to Uncle! Come on! - Uncle!

- What are you doing here with Tietou? - Granny's sick. I took the day off.

Guodong...

Shaolong hasn't said a thing to me.

But the past two days he's been very depressed.

Is he...

Son...!

Don't worry about it.

I'll fix it up latter.

As for Shaolong...

Shaolong has nothing to worry about.

Some posters have named him.

You've probably seen them.

But he's not in danger.

What about Liu Yunwei?

Is he in danger?

I think so.

But how? How could Liu Yunwei be a Rightist?

It's impossible. Why is he an anti-Party element?

Go home!

Don't worry about Shaolong.

- Say goodbye to Uncle. - Bye, Uncle!

We're going.

Sit down and eat!

What a kid!

Careful of your "iron head"!

What's that?

Nothing.

Shuyan... how many times have I told you?

Young people ought to concentrate on study and thought reform.

But you never listen. You're so arrogant.

Sis, I don't think this is necessary, okay?

- This is worrying enough as it is. - What are you worried about?

Shaolong's all right so far.

And even if something happens you've still got Tietou!

What are you saying? These are two separate issues.

Forget it. I'm not getting into an argument.

There's some leftovers.

Don't panic! If anything happens I won't drag you into it.

I won't besmirch your glorious reputation.

Auntie hit Uncle!

The following people are to be rectified...

In General staff:

Zhang Yunming , Liu Xiaofeng.

In operations:

Yu Jie...

Xiao Jun, Su Changjun.

In supplies:

Qian Yicheng, Hou Mingxin, Wang Kaiyun.

Next, the Political Department:

Hu Jinsheng, Wa Xiaoquan, Li Yonggang.

In Logistics:

Yonggang! Yonggang!

Comrades...

I'm asking you...

to give consideration to this matter.

Is it possible...

that in this whole library...

only Liu Yunwei is assuming to be a rightist, huh?

I'm not saying...

we have to come up with a set percentage of staff...

but...

we have our responsibility to the Party.

We need to take this moment seriously.

Rally behind the leadership, refute the fallacies of the rightist faction.

Talk to your superiors!

How could you choose that moment to go to the toilet?

Tietou broke the window!

Shaolong come here quickly!

It's not that serious! Don't hit him!

Stop crying! I'll beat you if you don't!

Don't blame the kid!

This is awful! Now the two of them are fighting.

It's all your fault! Get out of my sight!

Go home! Now!

Tietou, stop it. Daddy's going to leave soon.

Daddy's bad. I'm going to kill him.

Daddy was upset when he hit you.

Daddy's going to a place very far away.

Daddy's fixing up the coal we'll need for winter.

We'll miss him a lot.

Shaolong...

Take good care of yourself. Be well!

You're stronger than me.

By the time you return I may not be able to see you anymore.

Chin up! We'll take good care of Shujuan.

Tietou, say goodbye to daddy.

Write often!

And so Daddy left. Little Uncle left too.

They both went to places far away.

I only learned this many years later.

Zhu Ying...

- There's someone outside to see you. - Coming!

- How did you find me? - I looked everywhere.

A person doesn't just disappear!

You didn't even tell me about your transfer.

I don't know what to say.

But didn't you get the letter I wrote?

Zhu Ying... tell me why?

Please tell me.

I'd like to know myself.

Really...

I'm not sure what happened.

Shusheng... we mustn't see each other any more.

- It would be bad for your future. - My future?

How?

Coming through!

Have you had your eyes checked lately?

Yes. Same old story.

I have to take care of them.

I've still got sight.

But my field of vision is smaller than usual.

The doctor said that my vision, will gradually become distorted.

Like a telescopic lenses.

I'd see you even more clearly that way.

It snowed here last night.

I thought of that snowy day...

when Ma slipped on her way to the well.

Shusheng don't forget to help Ma fetch the water.

How are your eyes by the way?

One night I dreamed Shusheng had gone blind...

I woke up in a cold sweat.

But they said it's the opposite of dream that comes true.

Go to Shanghai and see a doctor.

They might have a cure.

Tell Sis I got her letter.

I reread it whenever I've got a moment.

I've taken her advice to heart.

Shujuan said Shaolong's gone away for work.

Where did he go? Is he back already?

Has little Tietou, grown any bigger?

Does he talk about me?

Something always upset me. One day when I was writing my self-criticism,

Tietou asked me:

Uncle, why can't goldfish blink?

I wasn't in the mood and I ignored him.

He kept repeating the question.

I got fed up and hit him.

He went to the window and cried.

Tell Tietou that a thousand miles away his uncle misses him very much.

Shuyan.

Ma... don't be upset.

- It's good for Shuyan. - Nonsense!

Shuyan is just a kid who thinks too big.

Has Shaolong written?

So he's...

What's happening to everybody?

Hitting your son again?

So he asked for money, and you hit him?

You shouldn't be a mother.

- Granny? - Yes?

Whose vegetables and ribs are these on the windowsill?

One of Shaolong's workmates brought them over. The one called Li.

- Any letters for me today Granny? - Yes.

It came around midday.

Oh... I must've given it to Tietou.

I told him it was very precious.

- You sloth of a cat! I'll kill you! - Ought to have done it ages ago!

All my daughter-in-law can do is goddamn eat!

Stupid woman!

All over 50 cents!

Tietou wanted candied crabapples.

I told Weijun to buy some.

It's not Tietou's fault to be hungry.

His father may be in a labour reform but he's not a criminal.

And she blamed it on me!

Tietou.

Stand still.

Who told you to go begging for food?

You're a disgrace.

Where's your daddy's letter? Give it to me.

Come on!

Come on!

Where did you put the letter?

Crying?

Go ahead and cry!

Shujuan!

Yes?

That woman made me forget everything.

I had the letter on me all along!

Thank you.

Tietou...

Tietou, Mummy was wrong.

You can slap my face...

So you'd really do it?

No, I don't hit people.

Let's play a game!

- What would you like to play? - Frogs.

All right, lets play frogs.

Here's one for you.

Let's make a big frog.

The crow on the tree...

The crow flying free.

The old crow flies no more...

circling birds cry and caw.

Little birds look for food,

First feed mum an then the brood.

I wait for mine patiently...

for mum has always fed me.

I'm never gonna sing for you again.

I'm smiling because I'm so happy!

I'm not singing for you anyway.

Don't be like that. We have to sing for Daddy!

Tietou, sing another song for Mummy, okay?

I'm going to write to Daddy and tell Tietou can sing the crow song.

- Do you miss Daddy? - No.

Daddy said he's coming back very soon.

Look, look!

I've made one. Blow it up!

Fantastic!

He's as big as a ballon!

That's a good boy.

Mum, I want Auntie to tell a story.

That'd be a real help.

I still have some essays to mark.

Okay!

Good, first let's tuck you in!

Auntie will tell you a story.

Once upon a time there was an old man...

who was called the Foolish Old man.

Twoo tall mountaisns stood in front of his home...

Tietou's such a clever kid. and really adorable too.

Adorable?

He's a terrible kid!

I can't work it out.

Shaolong and I are so well-behaved.

How can our son be such a troublemaker?

Shaolong calls him a born rebel.

That's kids! They're supposed to be mischievous.

How is Shaolong? Have you had many letters?

Not many.

He's all right.

He's had some stomach problems. He's probably not eating properly.

Hey Zhu Ying... Have you seen my brother, lately?

No.

How are his eyes?

Not too good.

What's going on with you?

He's terribly worried.

You didn't do nothing wrong.

Why'd you suddenly leave the army?

I don't know.

But I had this felling.

Shujuan, I like your family so much and I like your brother.

I fear that if I continue to see him I'll get him into trouble.

Does my coming here make you afraid?

Don't be silly. What's there to be afraid of?

There's no reason for you to feel afraid.

I know...

but I'm so apprehensive.

My superior Officer came to see me a few weeks ago.

He wants me back. He urged me to think about it.

What's there to think about? Sign up!

It's not that simple.

I know what it will involve.

I dare not think about it.

You may think I was fine.

In fact, inside I'm so scared.

I'm so scared.

Zhu Ying has frequently...

stirred up sentiments against the Party, socialism and the Army.

The court has ordered her arrest

for counter-revolutionary crimes.

Registered letter for Chen Shujuan at house No. 6.

There's no one home. I'll take it for her.

Tietou?

This is a letter for your mother.

Don't loose it.

One, two, three, four. I can play...

Look at Tietou!

Tietou, you can read now, can you?

It's a letter for my mother.

Oh, it's your mother's letter?

The magistrate is furious.

Send a man right away to apprehend...

Heng... Lei Heng, will be paraded in front of the masses.

Mummy!

- Shaolong sent a letter. - What?

Your son is reading it!

Is that so, son?

Son, give me the letter, please!

Weijun will see Tietou home later.

Fine.

The light went off!

- Ma, do you have candles? - Yes.

Weijun, don't tease him.

Weijun, are you listening to me? Take Tietou home.

Find your own shoes.

Watch where you're going.

Careful! Careful!

Watch your step.

Daddy was dead.

He was cutting down some trees. One fell and crushed him.

He died instantly.

He didn't even cry out.

Mum, will you have Happy Old Man firecrackers on New Years?

Mum, I want a Happy Old Man.

Mum, I want a Happy Old Man.

I want one. Everybody else has them.

You can watch the other kids set off theirs.

Is not the same. I want my own!

- What if I don't get you one? - You have too!

What a kid!

Mum look, a Happy Old Man.

Have you thanked Uncle yet?

Thank you, Uncle.

UNCLE

Tia!

Comrades neighboors: all must take part in the political mission,

given to us by Chaiman Mao of exterminating all sparrows.

Take up gongs and drums, and don't down your weapons...

until every last sparrow has fallen from the sky.

Tietou! Tietou!

Weijun! Bingzhen!

Tietou come on up!

Give it to me Weijun! Give it to me!

Hey, why did you let it go?

I didn't. It ​​flew away by itself.

Why do I have to stay with Grandma?

I have to labour in the countryside

Why do you have to labour in the countryside?

To assist in agricultural production.

Why do you have to assist in production?

Without production what would we eat?

- Are you taking these? - Ah, yes.

Can I go with you to assist in production?

I don't think so.

Mum will be back in three months.

How long is three months?

Three months is ninety days...

and these shoes.

How many days is ninety days?

What's with this kid? So many questions!

No one will play with me.

Tietou?

During the day you play with Granny.

Then in the evening Uncle Shusheng or I, will come...

to take you to Grandma's.

On sundays... and guess what...

I´ll take you to the park.

- Great! I want to go to the park. - Yes.

And I want another Happy Old Man too.

Okay, another Old Happy Man.

- So you're off? - Yes.

Granny this is the key to my place.

Fine, I'll look after it.

Tietou, do what granny tells you!

- Shall we stay? - Yes, stay.

Tietou listen to Granny.

- Say goodbye to Mum. - Bye Mum.

- Don't forget, Uncle Li. - What?

Ah, the park and the Old Happy Man!

- Bye, Mum. - Bye!

- Line up, don't crowd... - Everybody line up!

Any steamed rolls?

Aren't you the gourmet! Which of your ancestors has eaten like this?

This shows how socialism is good.

Granny will give you a little treat.

We mustn't let the communal kitchens be a drag...

on the Great Leap Forward!

Anyone have any comments?

I fear the communal kitchen will disband!

Don't you worry!

- This is steaming hot. - Eat up!

Catch a whiff of that delicious fatty pork!

Tietou's turning into quite a chubby little thing!

How does it taste? Good?

Ma, Shujuan has written. She is worried about your health.

Tietou, your mother has written.

She says don't be naughty.

She'll be home soon, see?

Chen Shujuan, old hen!

What with this kid? He hates his mother now?

- Ma... - Yes.

I'm starving.

Wash your hands!

Everything looks so delicious now! Manual labour has that effect.

What's happening now is so moving!

Even the primary students are smelling steel.

Come on, eat up!

- Tietou, say hello to Auntie. - Auntie!

- Come to eat. - He's had his dinner.

Isn't Shujuan due home soon? Three months must be up by now.

Chen Shujuan, old hen.

- Hey, what's with you? - Don't mind him. He does this everyday.

I blame the school. Why'd Shujuan have to be the first teacher to go?

But she volunteered.

Even so, they should have taken her situation into account.

Everyone has to do it sooner or later. What she did was right.

I didn't say it wasn't.

But Tietou misses his mother. It's really sad.

It's fine to be progressive but not at your child's expense!

Shusheng, why are you so full of complaints?

It's a fact.

The whole country is caught up with the Great Leap Forward.

You're on sick leave away from the revolution.

Our revolution is a feat unparalleled in history.

You must have heard, at least.

I've heard! How communal kitchens waste untold amounts of food...

and how the steal we produce is just scrap metal.

What are you saying?

This is reactionary! It's a matter of political standpoint.

Would I say it if I didn't care for my country?

Shusheng you'd better watch it. This is dangerous talk.

Tietou what are you doing?

Tietou... Tietou, I'm here!

Tietou!

Say hello to Mum.

Hello Mum.

Goddess of Mercy, infinite in your compassion...

please protect Tietou in this moment of need.

Granny!

Is he any better?

He's sleeping. Why don't you get some rest?

Let me look.

He's perspiring.

He caught a draught playing in the doorway.

Yes, no need to worry.

I'll go home. Call me if you need me.

Thanks.

Guodong... We've put you to a lot of trouble.

Not at all. It's nothing.

Take care Granny.

- Shunjuen? - Yes?

- You ought to eat something. - Well...

The food's cold. I'll it it up for both of us.

Hey...

How did Tietou find this?

It was his wedding present to us.

Some things are so unpredictable.

Look at this.

It's so strange.

Let me show you something.

Do you remember Wang Biying?

She died two years ago giving birth.

Li Dongming died of dysentery labouring in the countryside.

No one's news of Liu Yunwei since he was sent away.

And Shaolong's been dead three years already.

Sometimes, when I look at this cloth, I fear my heart's going to burst.

Shujuan...

I have to tell you something.

You may never forgive me...

but I have to say it sooner or later.

If Shaolong and Yunwei, have been sent away...

I'm the only one to blame.

I wrote a report for the leaders...

Yunwei...

I was so muddle-headed at the time.

Only later, when Shaolong died...

did I realize...

I was...

a criminal.

Mum... Mummy...

Coming.

Mum's right here.

Shaolong told me about this at the time.

He mentioned it in letters as well.

He said not to blame you...

that you had no choice.

Besides, Yunwei, would have been...

a Rightist in any case.

And Shaolong would've been sent to the notheast all the same.

I don't doubt this.

Guodong...

let's not bring it up again, all right?

Have another mouthful!

Take it easy. He's more than full.

All right. This is the last one.

Ma, please! He'll get indigestion.

All right, all right. No more!

Go play now!

Go play with your Uncle.

You little devil! What are you doing?

- You've got big eyes. - Yes.

Are you going to be a widow all your life?

I don't know.

Since Shaolong's been gone, I've felt at a loss.

There you go!

You're still not over Shaolong.

But he's dead. You've got to come to terms with that.

You're young, you've got a child.

Think of the future.

Sis, I know what you are saying.

But it's the way I am.

What can I do?

He was so young...

and now he's dead.

I don't even know where he's buried.

When he was alive, he was a rightist.

And now? What is he?

This has to be cleared up one way or another!

When Tietou grows up he'll ask...

"Where is my father?". "How did he die?".

What am I going to tell him?

You mustn't dwell on this.

It's all in the past.

This won't solve anything.

Why are you laughing?

I can't help thinking about it.

But the more I do, the less I understand.

So...

Then, think of something else.

- Bye Granny! - Mum, I'm going.

Respect your teacher and come back home after school.

Obey the rules.

- You're back. - Mum...

- What are we having for dinner? - Rice.

Is Uncle Li coming for dinner?

How did you know?

If you've got three tins out then one's for Uncle Li.

Tietou, go do your homework and mind your own business.

Mrs. Lan, will you come out?

Coming! Coming!

Everyone look here!

Think about it... In these hard times...

who can afford so many rolls?

The question is:

Where did all this flour come from?

I've been saving it a bit at a time from my rations.

Everyone here knows!

- My son's coming today. - It's easy to work this out.

This too much flour could only come from...

the black market, right?

Take it all away!

It's true! I did save it from my rations.

I'll never do it again.

Take it away!

We confiscated it as a lesson to everyone.

Don't worry, no one will eat them. They'd spoil first.

Shujuan...

the library came in first in the manual labour contest.

I was named a model worker.

Our school came in fifth.

There's so many females competing it's hard to win.

This afternoon, I handed in, my application to join the Party.

A member of the committee came to see me.

Really?

The branch is considering the possibility that next spring...

Silly boy on the doorstep there. He has no bride...

so he weeps with despair.

But what's he want a bride for?

When the light's on they talk when it's off, you're a pair.

And in the morning she will comb my hair.

Uncle, pick me up.

Come!

Don't force yourself on Uncle.

One, two, three, up you go!

You all right?

- What happened? - An old illness. Nothing to worry about.

Why didn't you go to the doctor?

I've been so busy!

Don't worry, it's nothing really.

- Did you hurt yourself? - No.

But you sure scared me when you fell.

Uncle is very clumsy!

- Does it still hurt? - No.

If it doesn't hurt, pick me up again!

Come on!

Up!

That's him!

Did you call him names?

- He called me first. - What'd I say?

Your father is in a labour camp.

Too bad for you, he's not.

Do you have a father? He's dead!

Pick on him and I'll beat you up. You think you're tough?

You pack of bastards, all ganging up on one kid like that!

Aren't you ashamed? Scram!

- What's happening? - They swore at me.

- Don't throw stones. - You're such a worry.

Always in trouble.

- Uncle! - Hello, Tietou!

Hello, Shujuan.

Uncle, why aren't you wearing your uniform?

Uncle's not in the army anymore.

Get it.

- Is it for me? - Yes.

- Did you like it? - Yes.

- Are you all right? - Yes I am.

Ma sent these soybeans.

- For me? - Yes.

Shujuan, I'm going to visit Zhu Ying in a few days.

Shujuan sends her best wishes.

She says she misses you.

I've been transferred to city construction bureau...

but until now I haven't started yet.

I wanted to see you,

while I can.

Soon I'll go blind.

Don't wait for me.

What does it matter if you can see me or not?

Please pass on my best to your mother and Shujuan.

If you wait, I'll be old and grey before I'm out of here.

- Who is it? - Me.

Come in!

Shujuan...

Could I have a glass of water?

- You're ill again? - Yes

Why don't you have something to eat? You might feel better.

I've eaten at my workplace.

- Why didn't you come for dinner? - I don't want to bother you.

My parents sent smoked ham and some home made sweets.

It's good stuff. I've brought it over for Tietou.

The library gave us cloth rations but I have enough clothing...

So I bought you some long underwear.

You really shouldn't have.

Are you feeling any better?

Much! It's really nothing.

You're always saying it's nothing but you look terrible.

You have to look after yourself.

When you and Tietou are all right, I'm happy.

- Would you quit saying that? - I don't say it that often.

But if it weren't for me... Shaolong would still be alive.

It's only for... Shaolong's sake that I...

How many times have I told you?

Shaolong is part of the past.

No need to think about it anymore.

Impossible.

I feel that...

I owe you and Tietou so much.

What are you saying? Owe us so much?!

Guodong...

You've got to go easier on yourself.

Whenever I see you two...

I can't help thinking of Shaolong.

and unless I do something for you... My heart's not at ease.

Otherwise, I feel like I can't bear the guilt.

So, you've unburdened yourself. but how do you think I feel now?

Don't misunderstand.

I mean, I've wronged you and Tietou.

Try to understand me!

- It's my obligation! - What do you mean?

Is it a matter of repaying...

your guilt, your remorse?

Thanks a lot...

but I don't need you charity.

Charity?

What do you think I am?

I act according to my conscience.

You insult me by saying that.

You're the only one with conscience? Insulting you?

Well, Li Guodong...

I thank you! Go and take that stuff with you!

Shujuan...

I can't leave like that!

Here I feel as if I'm at my home.

I don't know how to explain it.

I'll go now.

- But don't be angry. - Go away, now.

Go then!

And don't ever come back!

Please don't be angry. You ought to know me by now.

Did you really think of this as your home?

I do.

I wish this were my home.

Don't come any close!

Go away.

I'm so terribly confused.

Ready?

Attention everyone!

I'll say one, two, three,

then everybody says "smile".

Ready?

One, two, three...

Smile!

Don't move. One more.

And so Mum married Uncle Li.

Everyone in the courtyard was in the wedding photograph.

We got through the three bad years when there wasn't enough to eat.

When New Year's came, everyone had dumplings.

To this day, there's no food I like better, than dumplings.

- Happy New Year. - Happy New Year!

We made dumplings as well.

- Try mine anyway. - And ours as well.

- Thank Granny. - Thank you Granny.

Good boy!

- Try these! - Thanks.

Bingzhen's mother! Bingzhen's mother!

- Happy New Year! - I've brought some dumplings too!

Best wishes for the New Year.

- What's in your dumplings? - Lamb and cabbage.

Lamb's not cheap. I didn't dare buy much.

Everyone come to my place later for drink!

- Will you come? - Sure!

Tietou come out and play!

- We're doing to set off firecrackers. - Wait, I'll get mine too.

- Happy New Year! - Happy New Year!

- Hurry, Tietou! - Coming.

- Do you have the incense? - Yes.

Come back soon for dumplings.

Mum, I want to light my lantern now.

- Why don't you do that after dinner? - But everyone else has theirs.

Come here. I'll light it for you

Whatever makes the kid happy.

- Are you in pain again? - I'm fine.

Here you go.

Come on, let's play.

Let's play hide and seek.

Palms up... Palms down!

Tietou you're it! Close your eyes.

One...

Two...

three...

four, five, six...

seven, eight, nine, ten!

- Tietou? - Here!

Tietou.? Tietou, I'm over here.

Weijun! Weijun! Weijun!

Hey...

What happened?

Tietou come back here!

Son, coming home so early?

Did you set off firecrackers?

- So, what happened? - My lantern got burnt up!

Come!

Come here...

It's okay. I'll buy you a new one.

- You can't buy one now! - I promise you I will.

- I want a horse too.

All right.

Go wash your hands before eating.

Uncle Li was very ill.

I visited him at the hospital, often.

About two months later, he died.

The doctor said, it was his liver.

"They said he was overworked and malnourished.

- Hey Tietou... - Tietou.

- Come and play. - Come on!

After Uncle Li died, Mum and I, moved in with Grandma.

Mum said she couldn't bear to live in that courtyard house anymore.

STEPFATHER

Were you tranferred to the country to teach?

No, I didn´t want to go.

The school in the commune...

is an kind of a flagship for the whole country.

We've put so much into it! I couldn't bear to leave it.

Hey Guang...

Is she your girlfriend?

No! She's just a colleague.

We're just sort of interested.

Shuyan...

- First establish a career. - I know.

- Family comes second. - I know.

- Shusheng, how are your eyes? - Still not very good.

- And the doctors? - Doctors? It's no use.

To be honest, I...

Tietou's home!

He only just got home?

He's away from home all day.

He only comes back for meals.

Hey, kid!

Tietou, come here.

Do you know who this is?

You've gotten so big! Do you still recognize me?

You're Shuyan, my little Uncle.

Not bad, Tietou.

- Hello Auntie! - Hello!

Little Uncle Shuyan...

had come back to show us his girlfriend.

I thought she was okay...

but I dindn't go for her red cheeks.

Looked like a monkey's ass.

Li Jinghui can sing in the girl's chorus..

He's got a good voice.

Li Mei went to the boy's toilet by mistake.

She sure run out of there fast!

Here comes the principal.

Hey kid, why your girlfriend is singing with them?

You know, the one with the long nose and big hears...

and little eyes.

The one who snorts as she walks.

Fuck you!

Fuck! Can't take a joke, kid?

Your mum's a pig.

Who are you talking about?

Stop it!

Stop fighting! It was only a joke!

How'd I ever get a son like you?

Are you proud of yourself? Aren't you ashamed?

You don't ever think of your mum!

When can I ever stop worrying about you?

Your father died young.

You're all I have...

but you're so infuriating.

Just have a fit one day and die.

I don't know how I've survived so far. I've had it!

Why can't you give me a bit of pleasure for once?

Are you listening?

You've really broken my heart.

Think about what you're doing.

Otherwise, I won't have you for a son.

Ma, go back. We are not going that far away.

Tietou!

Do as your mother says.

Don't let her worry, OK?

Mum got married again. He was an old Auntie's comrade.

Grandma and Uncle didn't approve.

Mum said she was doing it for me.

It was the first time I ever rode in a car.

Bye, Uncle! Bye, Grandma!

- Goodbye, little Tietou! - Goodbye everybody.

Loa Wu, dinner's ready.

Coming!

Tietou time for dinner.

Oh, coming.

Lao Wu, dinner.

The fragrance of the wine beguiles,

the jade cup shines with an amber light.

The host makes his guest so drunk,

they no longer know where they are.

You did well this time.

Wash up and get reaady for bed!

Hey, no time to play. Go to sleep.

- Mum... - Yes, what is it?

Can I have some money?

More money to planes?

Try to spare it!

- Mum... - What now?

Don't forget to wake me up.

I know.

- Mum... - Now what? This kid!

Nothing.

Little troublemaker.

- Dinner's ready. - Coming.

The "maid" is calling us.

- Who? - The "maid" is calling us.

What's with you young man?

You don't like me, do you?

Pick up that rice.

Put it back in the bowl.

- Do it! - Tietou!

Lao Wu, what are you doing?

I'll eat it.

Hey Tietou...

Granny worries about you. She want you to visit.

Is...

that man, good to you?

Oh yeah! His own kids are not in Beijing.

He takes me to the zoo and eat peppery lamb's stomach, too.

- Really? - Of course.

And he tells me tales from the war.

He killed seven or eight Japs.

Grannie says to come over and play some time.

Lao Wu, turn on the light.

What's on your mind, son? Tell me.

I want to go back to Grandma's.

Sure... Don't be long.

I don't want to come back.

Why are you so miserable?

I know you're not happy.

Go stay with Grandma for a few days.

I'm not so happy myself.

You silly boy...

you're everything to me.

Stay with me, please?

On Sunday, we'll go visit Grandma together. Hows that?

- Xiao, come! - Coming!

Hey, I want to play too.

- Greater China brand! - Incredible!

Let me see.

Blue Peony brand!

Your dad must be a big official.

What did you say?

Hey, don't go.

Let's play again!

Little Uncle is home.

Tietou come here.

Quickly.

This is your stepbrother and his wife.

- This is my son, Tietou... - Hello Tietou..

Hello stepbrother. Sister-in-law.

You can go play now! Go!

Niuniu don't fight with your little Uncle.

Little Uncle, why did you get home so late?

I've been waiting all afternoon for you.

Is this a plane?

No. it's a model of a plane.

Little Uncle, can I play with it?

Leave it. I've got to do homework.

- Little Uncle, is that a kite? . - Yes.

Will you take me kite-flying?

Will you take me kite-flying?

Little Uncle...

Will you take me kite-flying?

All right.

Let it go!

I'll check on them.

Wenying, come have a look.

Kids!

Asleep, just like that.

Tietou...

Tietou, wake up.

Little Uncle! Little Uncle!

What's up?

- The kite's stuck up in the tree. - The kite?

Daddy was flying it just now.

Daddy... Daddy's dumb.

He just started flying it when it got stuck.

It's still there.

Little Uncle, do you think we can get it down?

No, but I can make another for you.

Kid... why aren't there any classes today?

Sure there aren't.

Even my parents didn't go to work.

No classes today!

What's going over there?

Boycott classes!

Mum?

- What is it? - Where's Niuniu gone?

I sent her home.

What were you saying?

He was asking about Niuniu.

- Down with Lu Wei! - Down with Lu Wei!

Revolution is no crime.

- Down with Lu Wei! - Down with Lu Wei!

- Down with Lu Wei! - Down with Lu Wei!

- Down with Lu Wei! - Down with Lu Wei!

Cut her hair off!

Students! You can't do this!

I will submit to investigation. You can criticize me.

But please don't cut my hair.

How will I face my children?

- Mum! - Yes.

- Mum? - Yes.

You're back!

Mum... today we struggled our principal.

What?

An we wrote posters against her and cut her hair.

She's such a bad person.

She scolds and punishes us.

So everyone spat on her. I spat at her too!

Bastard!

Shusheng, what day is it?

Friday.

The seventh.

Ma, are you asking when Zhu Ying has to leave?

I know she has to visit her parents.

Have some more to eat, dear.

Tietou...

You don't go to class anymore?

We've burnt all our texts. But I go to school every day.

It's a lot of fun.

Well... I...

Any more dumplings? Let's make some more?

There are still lots left.

Tietou, what were you saying was so much fun?

Nothing.

Zhu Ying, have some more.

Like they say, "Dumplings to see you off".

You should eat something too.

You've been so busy you haven't eaten.

Take care.

Take care!

What happened to Auntie Zhu Ying was always a mystery to me.

I asked her once...

Why they put her in jail then let her out.

She said she wasn't sure herself.

The Neighborhood Committee took over these rooms.

Now it's a storeroom for confiscated goods.

Mrs. Lan was sent back to her parents' home.

I hear her father was a big landlord.

Bingzhen's moved too? Where'd he go?

Dunno. It's been six months since I've seen any of them.

- Hello! - Hello!

They're new. They've been here half a year.

- Have one. - I don't smoke.

Ma, let me.

It's cold. You should rest.

Look, no one's here yet!

They're all so busy.

Ma, I'll put the food on the table.

Relax, Guihua. It's all right.

Ma, let me do that.

This must be Tietou.

- Say hello to your new auntie. - Hello Auntie!

Give me your jacket.

Uncle Shuyan?

Tietou, have some candy. Here.

Take more.

How's your mother and stepfather?

Ma! Let me...

Ma, I'll do that.

Ma, let me do that for you.

Elder brother is here!

I'll take that.

Here... have a sit.

How are things?

Don't wait for Sanjuan.

Let's eat without her.

- Have you phoned Sis? - Yes. She can't make it.

Not even for a marriage celebration?

What sort of celebration can you put on these days, anyway?

Let's eat.

Eat, Tietou!

Ma, let me do that.

- Shuyan, she's a new bride, right? - Yes, the other had bad background.

But this aunt is a bit...

Unattrative?

Your uncle's stupid. Nothing I do is quite right.

Don't take after me.

Mum, one of my classmates has the best Mao badge.

What are you burning? Can I help?

You're home late.

We were at little Uncle's wedding.

So people are still getting married?

My new auntie is a poor peasant.

Sit down.

We need to talk.

Tietou... you too.

Stay here.

Sit down.

There's ash in you hair.

I ought to have spoken to you earlier.

I didn't think things would happen so quickly.

There are many posters criticizing me.

And there are more every day.

What I can do? Nothing!

They'll be here soon...

and it'll mean...

trouble for both of you.

I've been thinking...

and I've decided...

that we should get divorced.

This way you'll be safe.

Shall we agree?

Better sooner than later.

Sure this makes me sad...

Believe it.

I really am fond of this boy...

Even if he has never liked me.

It's true, isn't it?

But boys are like that, aren't they?

Let me think it over.

Think of yourself and your child.

Don't worry about me.

This money...

is for both of you.

It's not much...

but it should help you, OK?

This is for...

little Niuniu.

Please keep it for her

If you can...

please help them out, okay?

Tahe it!

Mum, let's pack!

Mum, what makes you happy?

I'm happy...

being with you.

I wonder how Sis is.

It's been more than ten days.

I heard they put her trough eight struggle sessions...

Even hung a signboard around her neck.

I'm so worried.

Don't get too upset. This is a political movement.

All the cadres are under attack.

It's a revolution without historical precedent.

This revolution has lasted for so long...

that I'm sure, it'll never end.

Ma, you mustn't talk like that outside the family.

You must have the right attitude.

I'm nearly in my grave... What have I got to fear?

I've been so distressed...

by what's happening, to all of you.

Shuyan's so far away.

We see him once every couple of years.

And Shusheng, with that problem with his eyes!

And you...

You haven't had much chance...

to be really happy.

I feel...

I've lived long enough.

Ma, don't even think that.

Everyone's doing all right.

Do me a favour and keep this safe.

Come on, get up! Get up! Still not up?

Get dressed, quick!

Hurry up!

Up!

Get dressed! Quickly!

If he can't walk, get a stretcher! Hurry!

Young generals of the Red Guard!

He's got heart trouble.

Can't you carry out your investigations here?

No! Let's go. Move it!

Look how ill he is!

He will not survive! He is an old comrade.

Old comrade? He's an old counter-revolucionary!

Please let him go! You'll kill him.

Hey, she's Wu Leisheng's wife!

Arrest her too!

Down with Wu Leisheng!

And you... you little son of a bitch!

Let me go! Let me go!

Tietou, go home now!

Mum! Mum!

Let me go! Animals!

You're beasts! Bastards!

Little counter-revolucionary! Beat him to death!

On November 7, 1968,

my stepfather died...

of a heart attack.

Mum was sent to labor reform as a counter-revolutionary.

The crow on the tree the crow flying free.

The old crow flies have no more, circling birds cry and caw.

Little birds look for food, first feed mum and then the breed.

I wait for mine patiently for mum has always fed me.

Subtitles by: [PAz]