Summer Palace

Summer Palace

Year: 2008

Runtime: 158 min

Language: German

Director: Ye Lou

DramaRomance

In Beijing, Wei, a young woman from the countryside, finds her life unexpectedly intertwined with Zhou, a fervent student. Their intense and passionate romance blossoms amidst political upheaval. As their relationship faces challenges and separation, Wei experiences heartbreak and new romantic possibilities. Ultimately, they are brought back together against the backdrop of a revolutionary period, forcing them to confront their feelings and the changing world around them.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Summer Palace (2008)

Trace every key event in Summer Palace (2008) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Yu Hong Leaves Her Village

Beautiful country girl Yu Hong decides to leave her village, family, and lover in search of a new life. She embarks on a journey to Beijing University, opening herself to a world full of possibilities and experiences.

Yu's village
2

Arrival at Beijing University

Upon arriving at Beijing University, Yu Hong is introduced to a vibrant and liberated atmosphere. This new environment allows her to explore her desires and discover her identity away from her previous constraints.

Beijing University
3

Meeting Zhou Wei

During her time at the university, Yu Hong meets fellow student Zhou Wei. Their initial attraction quickly evolves into a passionate relationship characterized by both excitement and turmoil, as they grapple with their emotions.

Beijing University
4

Complex Love/Hate Relationship

As their relationship deepens, it becomes a rollercoaster of dangerous games and intricate dynamics. There are moments of profound love interspersed with betrayals and provocations that reflect the chaotic environment around them.

Beijing
5

Political Unrest Erupts

Amid their turbulent romance, political protests begin to rise around them, with students demanding freedom and democracy. The tensions escalate, influencing both their relationship and the general atmosphere at the university.

Beijing
6

Collapse of Protests

As the protests surge and ultimately collapse, chaos engulfs the city. Yu and Zhou find themselves separated in the ensuing panic, marking a pivotal moment in their lives where they lose each other amidst the turmoil.

Beijing
7

Zhou's Military Camp

Following the protests, Zhou is sent to a summer military camp as part of the government's crackdown on dissent. This period of separation leads him to reflect on his experiences and feelings for Yu.

Military Camp
8

Zhou Moves to Berlin

After his release from the military camp, Zhou decides to flee to Berlin, seeking distance from his home country and the memories of his turbulent relationship with Yu. This escape represents his desire for freedom and a new start.

Berlin
9

Social Unrest in Berlin

As Zhou settles in Berlin, he finds himself amidst growing social unrest in Europe as well. The city is alive with political change and upheaval, mirroring the conflict he left behind in China.

Berlin
10

Fall of the Berlin Wall

At the height of the protests in Berlin, the Berlin Wall finally crashes down. This monumental event is a turning point in history, and for Zhou, it symbolizes both liberation and unresolved feelings of his past.

1989 Berlin
11

Zhou Returns to China

Haunted by memories of Yu, Zhou makes the decision to return to China. His journey back signifies not only a physical return but also an emotional reckoning with his past.

China
12

Reunion with Yu

Zhou finally finds Yu living in a small town in China, where they come face to face once again. Despite the changes they have both undergone, their reunion stirs up old feelings and unresolved tensions.

Small Town, China
13

Confronting Changed Selves

Both Yu and Zhou confront how they have changed and what their relationship means now in a vastly different world. They must navigate their emotions and the uncertainties of their future together.

14

Hope for the Future

As they look towards their uncertain future, Yu and Zhou ponder whether they can find a way to be together. Their love, tested by time and upheaval, remains a question mark in the face of a changed society.

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 19:25

Unlock the Full Story of Summer Palace

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Summer Palace Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Summer Palace, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Summer Palace Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Summer Palace

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Summer Palace

More About Summer Palace

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More About Summer Palace

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