Shadow Magic (2000)
Original title: 西洋镜
Shadow Magic is a 2000 Chinese-language drama movie directed by Ann Hu, with a running time of 1h 56m. It stars Jared Harris, Xia Yu and Liu Peiqi.
Beijing, 1902: an enterprising young portrait photographer named Liu Jinglun, keen on new technology, befriends a newly-arrived Englishman who's brought projector, camera, and Lumière-brothers' shorts to open the Shadow Magic theater. Liu's work with Wallace brings him conflict with tradition and his father's authority, complicated by his falling in love with Ling, daughter of Lord Tan, star of Beijing's traditional opera. Liu sees movies as his chance to become wealthy and worthy of Ling. When the Shadow Magic pair are invited to show the films to the Empress Dowager, things look good. But, is disaster in the script? And, can movies preserve tradition even as they bring change?
Quick answers
What is Shadow Magic about?
Beijing, 1902: an enterprising young portrait photographer named Liu Jinglun, keen on new technology, befriends a newly-arrived Englishman who's brought projector, camera, and Lumière-brothers' shorts to open the Shadow Magic theater. Liu's work with Wallace brings him conflict with tradition and his father's authority, complicated by his falling in love with Ling, daughter of Lord Tan, star of Beijing's traditional opera. Liu sees movies as his chance to become wealthy and worthy of Ling. When the Shadow Magic pair are invited to show the films to the Empress Dowager, things look good. But, is disaster in the script? And, can movies preserve tradition even as they bring change?
When was Shadow Magic released?
Shadow Magic was released on 8 September 2000.
How long is Shadow Magic?
Shadow Magic runs 1h 56m.
Who made Shadow Magic?
Shadow Magic was directed by Ann Hu.
Where can I watch Shadow Magic?
Shadow Magic is available on Google Play Movies and YouTube.
Where to watch Shadow Magic
Rent: Google Play Movies, YouTube
Buy: Google Play Movies, YouTube