Review of The Children of Huang Shi (2008) by Garrick J — 13 Jul 2009
Based on true adventures.....hmmm, based yes, but extremely loosely. This film version ignored the more significant issues of the story and indeed the major character who not only was in the orphanage when Hogg arrived, but travelled with him and kept the orphanage running after his death.
Could it be that the real life character, Rewi Alley, who was both a Communist and gay, did not fit in with Chinese nor US financial backing? I knew George Hogg's story well before seeing the film, so was understandably annoyed to see this poor treatment of a truly wonderful real life story.
The film looks amazing however, and there are some moments that are truly moving. Johathan Rhys Meyes, despite some very courageous moments, does not have the experience to pull of this demanding role.
..that is only my opinion, as easy as he is on the eye. I also found the directing/editing clumsy....this was more astounding to me in fact than the mistreatment of true history. Spottiswoode has been one of my favourite directors.
What went wrong?.....this movie is really "the parson's egg" :-(.
This review of The Children of Huang Shi (2008) was written by Garrick J on 13 Jul 2009.
The Children of Huang Shi has generally received positive reviews.
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