To Live

"To Live" focuses on a family's struggle to adapt and accept the new Chinese communist regime. The family serves as a metaphor for the sacrifices made during and after the Cultural Revolution. The film criticizes the communist regime but demonstrates the willingness of the Chinese to adhere to the goverment's restrictions. "To Live" relastically portrays the hardships endured by many during the regime, but does not completely reveal the audacities of the government. The desire of a quiet runs throughout the film and the director understand the desires of ordinary people. His story reveals the strife and triumph of one family but represents many Chinese families.