Mao's Last Dancer - the movie

Mao's Last Dancer, the movie

I loved the book and couldn't wait to see the movie and it was fantastic!

I was a little worried about the sheer amount of information from the book which must be left out of a 2 hour film, however Bruce Beresford did a masterful job and although certain aspects of Li Cunxin's biography were either skimmed over or left out, the majority of the story was told beautifully and movingly.

I did feel that the breakup of Li's first marriage was dealt with a little too quickly, and certain aspects of his childhood and his family were skipped entirely, however film can capture a lot more in one picture than could be said in words and the film was wonderful.

The dancing was marvellous, the cinematography beautiful and the actors were brilliant also!

I would definately recommend this movie, it is not just about ballet, but about a mans' desire for freedom of choice. Even though Li Cunxin was forced to defect from China, i never got the sense that he stopped loving his country, simply that he wished for something more which, at that time, could not be found there.

I love that Li Cunxin now makes Melbourne his home and is a stockbroker of all things!!!

I would also suggest taking tissues as I cried in the end, but they were tears of happiness.

Definitely go see this movie!

Reviewed by Justine.

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