Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles (Qian li zou dan qi) 2005

Takata Gouichi (played by Ken Takakura) is an aged Japanese father who has not been on good terms with his son Kenichi (Nakai Kiichi) ever since his wife died many years ago. When he learns that his son has been hospitalized with terminal liver cancer, Gouichi travels to Tokyo but Kenichi, still angry that his father left him for a remote fishing town in northern Akita province to escape the reality of his mother's death, refuses to see Gouichi. Kenichi's wife Rie (Shinobu Terajima) then gives her father-in-law a video tape made by Kenichi so that Gouichi may learn more about his son. The tape contains a footage of Li Jiamin, a Nuo opera artiste from a village in Yunnan province of China. In the recording, Li promised Kenichi to perform, "Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles" for him if he returns the next year. Gouichi then decides to go to China in his sick son's place to film Li's performance. Gouichi arrives in Li Village near the city of Lijiang, only to learn that Li has been imprisoned for assaulting someone who insulted his illegitimate son, Yang Yang. His translator suggests he films someone else, but Gouichi insists on Li. After much trouble attaining clearances from the authorities, Gouichi gains entry to the prison facility. However, Li breaks down in tears on stage and is unable to perform as he misses his son badly. Gouichi decides to travel to Stone Village to bring Yang Yang to the prison. While in the village, Gouichi receives a call from Rie, who tells him that Kenichi has been touched by his efforts in China and requests he come home. Gouchi wonders if the message ultimately comes from Rie or Kenichi; he continues with his plan to unite Li and Yang Yang.

Directors: Zhang Yimou, Furuhata Yasuo

Stars: Takakura Ken, Nakai Kiichi

JDramaMama's ating: A

Talk about a touching, well acted film - this is it. The fabulous Zhang Yimou never disappoints with his films. This one is about the education of a stubborn, old fashioned father who is estranged from his only child who is dying from cancer. He takes it upon himself to finish a project his son started and thereby reconnecting with him showing that underneath his icy exterior, is a warm, caring heart. The father also reunites the Chinese opera star with his son, bringing healing to them. The scenery and costumes of the Chinese opera are beautiful and the scenery breathtaking. There is a lot to be learned about forgiveness and reconciliation from this film. A very well written and acted human drama.

#China #drama #family