Cornerhouse

Part of Projector, Projector Community Languages

Recommended for GCSE and equivalent level Mandarin. Capacity: 158 places

This study session aims to give students the opportunity to observe Mandarin as it is spoken in this beautiful, character-led story. Students will also familiarise themselves with Chinese culture and customs before China emerged as a Communist republic.

After the screening, students will be encouraged to participate in a structured discussion focusing on language, culture and film through a specially designed study guide written by the course tutors. It will provide pre-screening, screening and post screening activities to give the students a focused forum in which to discuss any relevant issues raised by the film.

Led by Zhang Xiaochen, Confucius Institute at the University of Manchester, and Robert Hamilton, Senior Lecturer Film and Media studies, Manchester Metropolitan University.

Screening: Springtime in a Small Town (Xiao Cheng Zhi Chun) PG

Director: Tian Zhuangzhuang / China 2003 / 116 mins /

In Mandarin with English subtitles

Springtime in a Small Town is a romantic tale of unfulfilled love set at the end of China’s war against Japan. Dr. Zhang Zhichen (Xin Baiqing) returns to his hometown to visit an old family friend, Dai Liyan (Wu Jun), who is unwell and is now married to the doctor’s childhood sweetheart. Tension rises as the former sweethearts rediscover their feelings for each other.