Asian Cinema : Movie Review : The King of Masks (1999)

The theatrical masks of Chinese opera were promoted by emperors and high court officials. As a result, they became a traditional art form and along with this tradition, came other traditions. 

Many films are gems that get lost or buried. Even award-winning films like “The King of Masks”. It's a foreign movie: Mandarin Chinese with English subtitles.

Time period is the 1930s. A master of an ancient Chinese art is growing old. He must pass on his skills to an heir. A male heir.
It's tradition!

Unfortunately, he's childless. In a desperate effort to honor the custom and maintain the trade and the tradition, he buys a young child. In China, poor children are often sold via a black market. He and the child develop a close relationship, however, a “complication” also develops.

"The King of Masks" 

is a wonderful and touching story. 

• View theatrical trailer - https://youtu.be/OjXVfF4GQO0
  

Related articles

• History of Masks - Ancient Use of Masks

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