The Sentimental in Chinese Cinema

This book explores the emergence and evolution of sentimental Chinese cinema from the 1990s to the 2000s, highlighting its distinctive styles and themes of homecoming and belonging. It contrasts with past forms of Chinese sentimental cinema and explores the cultural resistance against globalisation and urbanisation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 210 pages
Publication date: 30 March 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

From the 1990s to the 2000s, Mainland Chinese cinema has delved into the manifestations and perpetuations of the sentimental, exploring a unique form of cinematic expression that captures notions of homecoming and belonging. This evolving style of Chinese cinema has not only sparked thought-provoking discussions on its own but also stands in contrast to past forms of Chinese sentimental cinema and the broader sentimental aesthetics across the world. These new representations of the sentimental have transformed established family-centred expressions in Chinese cinema, emphasizing togetherness and a yearning for belonging. This renewed emphasis on the sentimental serves as a cultural resistance against the increasingly alienating and isolating forces of globalization and urbanization.

In this book, we delve into the sociocultural conditions that have facilitated a renewed understanding of the sentimental and the cultural identity markers that are constantly under contestation. Through a comprehensive analysis of Mainland Chinese cinema from the 1990s to the 2000s, we explore how the sentimental has been expressed, reconfigured, and resisted in the context of rapid social change.

One of the key aspects of this book is its exploration of the role of family in the sentimental. Traditional family values and structures have been challenged in the face of rapid urbanization and globalization, leading to a reevaluation of the importance of family bonds and connections. The new sentimental in Chinese cinema often portrays the complexities of family relationships, highlighting the conflicts, tensions, and sacrifices that arise within families.

At the same time, the new sentimental also emphasizes the cultural significance of tradition and heritage. The films explore the ways in which individuals and communities navigate the challenges of modernity while holding onto their cultural roots and traditions. This cultural resistance against the forces of globalization is a significant aspect of the new sentimental, as it seeks to preserve and celebrate the unique aspects of Chinese culture.

Furthermore, this book examines the ways in which the sentimental has been used as a tool for social commentary and political critique. The films often address issues of social inequality, discrimination, and the struggles of marginalized communities, using the sentimental to evoke empathy and understanding. The new sentimental has become a powerful means of expressing the concerns and experiences of those who are often overlooked or marginalized by mainstream media and society.

In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive exploration of the manifestations and perpetuations of the sentimental in Mainland Chinese cinema from the 1990s to the 2000s. Through a rich analysis of film texts, cultural contexts, and sociocultural factors, we gain a deeper understanding of the ways in which the sentimental has shaped the cultural identity of Mainland China and contributed to the ongoing debates about identity, belonging, and the role of cinema in shaping society.

Weight: 303g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030883324
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022