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Bian Lian (The King of Masks) (1999)

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All Critics
Top Critics

Average Rating: 7.4/10
Reviews Counted: 18
Fresh: 16 | Rotten: 2

No consensus yet.

100

Average Rating: 7.7/10
Critic Reviews: 5
Fresh: 5 | Rotten: 0

No consensus yet.

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Average Rating: 4.1/5
User Ratings: 2,973

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Movie Info

The King of Masks is an elderly street performer, a master of the Sichuan opera art of changing masks so fast that it seems to be magic. His only son died some time ago, and he is a lonely man who desires an heir not just for himself but for his art. It is in the tradition that the art must not be passed down to anyone but a direct heir and only to a boy, never a girl. The story takes place in Sichuan earlier this century during a time of great famine and social disruption. Many poor families

Unrated, 1 hr. 41 min.

Art House & International, Drama

Directed By: Wu Tianming

Written By: Wei Minglun

In Theaters: Apr 16, 1999 Wide

On DVD: Mar 7, 2000

Samuel Goldwyn

Cast

Critic Reviews for Bian Lian (The King of Masks)

All Critics (30) | Top Critics (12) | Fresh (16) | Rotten (2) | DVD (5)

This charming, '30s-set fable offers richer rewards than a jolt of adrenaline.

February 18, 2005 Full Review Source: TheMovieReport.com

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Michael Dequina

TheMovieReport.com

Reveals the desperate lengths a resilient little girl will go to find a permanent home.

March 3, 2002 Full Review Source: Spirituality and Practice

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Frederic and Mary Ann Brussat

Spirituality and Practice

The story centers around an elderly street performer who is a fast changer of silk masks.

February 14, 2001 Full Review Source: Ozus' World Movie Reviews

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Dennis Schwartz

Ozus' World Movie Reviews

starts out strong and enduring, but squanders its tender sincerity on dramatics.

January 1, 2000 Full Review Source: Hollywood Report Card

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Ross Anthony

Hollywood Report Card

More Critic Reviews

Audience Reviews for Bian Lian (The King of Masks)

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An insightful study in Asian culture and the sometimes tragic consequences of tradition. Slightly sappy but a genuine pleasure to watch. This one will tug at your heartstrings (hankies mandatory).

January 18, 2009

Randy Tippy

Super Reviewer

Not a bad story, but not what I'd hoped to see. If they'd spent more time exploring the artistry of the mask quick-change and the King teaching that to "Doggie," I think the film would be stronger for it. The art form is fascinating and pure magic.

April 25, 2007