Digital release: ‘A New Old Play’

By   |  Jun 2, 2023

The 2021 Chinese historical drama ‘A New Old Play’ (椒麻堂会) is now available to own on US Digital, courtesy of Icarus Films.

Written and directed by Qiu Jiongjiong, the film revolves around the leading clown in a renowned theatre troupe who passes on and relives his vivid memories one last time before entering the afterlife. The cast includes Yi Sicheng, Guan Nan, Qiu Zhimin, Xue Xuchun, and Gu Tao.

Synopsis: Qiu Fu, a leading clown-role actor in 20th-century Sichuan opera, departs this world and must reluctantly set off for the Ghost City under the escort of two underworld officials. Along the way, he meets old friends. As they recall the past, earthly scenes creep into the mists of the Netherworld. Qiu Fu’s life in opera unfolds against the backdrop of a secular upheaval. The “New-New” Troupe in which he grows up and learns his trade is affiliated with the military. As power shifts, the troupe is cast loose to wander rootlessly through a broken world. Despite this unsettled destiny, shaped by war, famine and political turmoil, Qiu Fu becomes one of the finest clown-role performers in Sichuan opera. And yet, one day he finds himself clapped in a pigsty as a political revolution rages outside…

‘A New Old Play’ is available to watch now on Amazon.com, Vimeo On Demand, iTunes and OVD.

Phil Mills
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