Summer Palace

Summer Palace

Year: 2008

Runtime: 158 min

Language: German

Director: Ye Lou

DramaRomance

In the vibrant city of Beijing, country girl Wei embarks on a journey of self-discovery, entwining her life with that of Zhou, a passionate student who sets her heart ablaze. As their tumultuous affair unfolds, they dance precariously close to the edge, driven by unbridled desire. When fate tears them apart, Wei must confront the ache of longing and the thrill of new love, only to be reunited in a maelstrom of revolution.

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Timeline & Setting – Summer Palace (2008)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Summer Palace (2008). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Late 20th century

The story unfolds during a period marked by significant political movements and social changes, particularly in the late 1980s. This era saw students in China advocating for freedom and democracy, leading to notable protests. The backdrop of historical events enriches the personal struggles of the characters, emphasizing the intertwining of personal and political upheaval.

Location

Beijing, Berlin, China

The movie primarily transpires in Beijing, a bustling hub of culture and education, known for its historical significance and modernization. It also features Berlin, a city rich in history, especially famous for the Berlin Wall, symbolizing division and the struggle for freedom. These locations serve as dramatic backdrops for the characters' emotional and political journeys.

🇨🇳 China 🇩🇪 Germany

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:04

Main Characters – Summer Palace (2008)
Meet the key characters of Summer Palace (2008), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Yu Hong (Hao Lei)

Yu Hong is a determined and beautiful girl who leaves her rural village for the excitement of Beijing University. Her journey symbolizes the search for individual freedom and self-discovery. As she navigates her passionate but chaotic relationship with Zhou, she also confronts the societal changes around her, which challenge her identity and future.

👩‍🎓 Student 💔 Romance 🌱 Self-discovery

Zhou Wei (Guo Xiaodong)

Zhou Wei is an introspective and passionate student whose relationship with Yu forces him to confront both his feelings and the socio-political turmoil of his time. His character evolves from a carefree individual to someone grappling with profound loss and identity, especially after experiencing life in Berlin and the weight of his homeland's challenges.

👨‍🎓 Student ✈️ Expat 🌪️ Turmoil

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:04

Major Themes – Summer Palace (2008)
Explore the central themes of Summer Palace (2008), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

❤️ Love

At its core, the film explores the complexities of love amidst chaos. Yu and Zhou's passionate relationship is challenged by external conflicts, testing their emotional bond. Their journey reflects the resilience and challenges of love in a tumultuous era.

🗳️ Political Unrest

The political landscape serves as a crucial backdrop to the narrative, highlighting issues of freedom and democracy. The characters' lives are deeply influenced by the protests occurring around them, showcasing how individual relationships are impacted by larger societal movements.

🌍 Self-Discovery

Both Yu and Zhou embark on journeys of self-exploration that mirror the societal shifts around them. The story illustrates their personal growth amidst external chaos, questioning what it means to find oneself in a changing world.

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:04

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