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The King of Masks Photos

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Movie Info

In 1930s China, aging street performer Wang (Zhu Xu) yearns for a male heir to inherit the secrets of his renowned magical act. Though he refuses an offer to join the opera, he heeds the advice of female-impersonating opera star Liang (Zhang Zhigang) to find an heir. Wang soon buys an 8-year-old orphan named Doggie (Zhou Renying). When his new heir reveals a desperate secret, Wang must choose between following the strictures of society and the fatherly love he feels for his new protégé.
  • Genre:
    drama
  • Original Language:
    Chinese
  • Director:
    Tian-Ming Wu
  • Producer:
    Titus Ho, Mona Fong
  • Writer:
    Minglun Wei
  • Release Date (Streaming):
  • Box Office (Gross USA):
    $1.1M
  • Runtime:
  • Production Co:
    Shaw Brothers
  • Sound Mix:
    Surround, Dolby SR

Cast & Crew

Zhu Xu
Bianlian Wang
Zhou Renying
Gou Wa
Zhang Zhigang
Luo Sulan
Tian-Ming Wu
Director
Minglun Wei
Writer
Titus Ho
Producer
Mona Fong
Producer
Da-Yuan Mu
Cinematographer
Jiping Zhao
Original Music
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Critic Reviews for The King of Masks

All Critics (19) | Top Critics (6) | Fresh (17) | Rotten (2)

View All Critic Reviews (19)

Audience Reviews for The King of Masks

  • Jan 18, 2009
    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).
    Randy T Super Reviewer
  • Jun 10, 2008
    A well directed moving story.
    Anthony V Super Reviewer
  • Jan 14, 2008
    Tear-jerking. One of the most recommanded film by me. Many foreign elements unknown to the Occidental world such as tradition to pass down family's secret skill unto sons, the working force of the society, and one's own sons only. Nonetheless, the emotion and the art is much appreciated and louder than color. A must watch!
    Jojo S Super Reviewer
  • Apr 25, 2007
    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.
    Lanning : Super Reviewer
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