In 1980, in the early days of reform and opening up, the cultural and artistic circles in Chinese mainland began to recover and explore. In this special period, the Chinese film industry has ushered in a historic opportunity, that is, the cinematic adaptation of classic literary works. As a milestone in modern Chinese literature, Lu Xun's "The True Story of Ah Q" was once considered difficult to put on the screen because of its particularity, but it was finally reinterpreted and presented in the 80s of the last century. This article will focus on the cooperation between Yan Shunkai and director Fan Cen, and tell how this film was born.
One early morning in 1980, the air in Shanghai was filled with a faint smog and a subtle hint of anticipation. On such a seemingly ordinary day, director Fan Cen received a task from Shanghai Film Studio - to prepare for the filming of "The True Story of Ah Q". This task was both an honor and a challenge for Fan Cen, after all, Mr. Lu Xun himself had thought that this work was difficult to present perfectly in images.
Fan Cen knows that the key to the success of the mission lies in finding the actor who can bring Ah Q to life. He began a months-long casting journey, from Beijing to Guangzhou, from theater to film school, looking for the ideal Ah Q among countless faces.
Just when he was about to give up, a ballet in Shanghai "The True Story of Ah Q" caught his attention. On the stage, the 44-year-old Yan Shunkai perfectly interpreted Ah Q's sadness and comedy with his unique performance charm, which deeply moved Fan Cen. Fan Cen did not immediately express his intentions, but watched several shows in a row, and each time he found Yan Shunkai's deeper grasp and performance of the role.
Fan Cen, who had made up his mind, had his first conversation with Yan Shunkai nervously and excitedly backstage at a performance. During the dialogue, Yan Shunkai demonstrated his deep understanding and emotional investment in the role of Ah Q.
Fan Cen said excitedly: "Mr. Yan, you are the Ah Q in my mind!" ”
Although Yan Shunkai was shocked by this sudden praise and proposal, the excitement in his heart was no less than that of Fan Cen. He replied: "Director Fan, I will do my best to live up to the expectations of you and Mr. Lu Xun." ”
In the days that followed, Yan Shunkai began intense preparations for film production. Not only did he have to adjust his body shape and appearance, but he also spent a lot of time studying the original book and delving into Ah Q's mental activities. He had countless discussions and rehearsals with Fan Cen and the crew members, trying to truly restore the image of Ah Q in every shot and every detail.
After months of hard work, the movie was finally completed. On the day of the premiere, the response from the audience exceeded all expectations. Yan Shunkai's Ah Q is not only hilarious, but also tearful, he successfully shows the level and depth of Ah Q. At the end of the movie, the audience stood up, and the long applause and shouts reflected the smiles and tears on Yan Shunkai's face.
Yan Shunkai's acting career is in full swing after "The True Story of Ah Q", and he has received numerous accolades and awards for this film. But in his heart, the biggest achievement is to be able to let the audience feel Ah Q's spiritual world and the social background of that era through the movie. Yan Shunkai once said in his later years: "Ah Q is not only my role, but also my response to this society. I hope that through my performance, the audience can see the complexity and greatness of every ordinary person's heart. ”
Yan Shunkai is like Ah Q played by him, they both face the hardships and challenges of life in their own unique ways. Through Yan Shunkai's wonderful performance, Ah Q is no longer just a symbol in literary works, but has become a spiritual symbol that inspires everyone who struggles in real life. This kind of profound reflection and expression of life through art is the most valuable value of film art. As Mr. Lu Xun said, art is the mirror of society, and excellent artists, like Yan Shunkai, can show the brilliance and shadow of the times in the mirror, leading us to think and move forward.