Characters
Who is Li Cunxin?
Mao's Last Dancer is mainly set in this Country
What is China?
This theme shows how Li never gave up, even when life was hard
What is perseverance?
A flashback helps the viewer understand this part of Li’s story
What is his childhood?
Ballet shoes represent this for Li
What is opportunity or escape?
This family member supported Li's passion for dance
Who is Niang or Dia?
The time period of Li's childhood took place under this political leader
Who is Mao Zedong?
This theme explores the restrictions and control of the Communist regime
What is oppression or control?
This camera angle is often used to show Li feeling small and powerless
What is a high-angle shot?
The iron rice bowl is a symbol of this in Communist China
What is stability or government support?
He was Li's dance teacher at the Beijing Dance Academy
Who is Teacher Xiao?
The political movement that shaped much of Li’s early life
What is the Cultural Revolution?
Li’s relationship with his family shows this emotional theme
What is love or loyalty?
The colour palette of Li’s village scenes often uses these tones
What are earthy or dull tones?
The kite in the village represents this emotion
What is freedom or hope?
This American helped Li defect and stay in the U.S.
Who is Ben Stevenson?
The city where Li studied ballet intensively
What is Beijing?
This theme is reflected in Li’s struggle between two cultures
What is identity or belonging?
This technique is used to contrast China and America
What is cross-cutting or juxtaposition?
The locked doors at the consulate represent this
What is restriction or fear?
Li's Father worked in this profession back in the village
What is a peasant or farmer?
The U.S. city where Li defected
What is Houston?
The idea of having freedom to choose your future
What is freedom or independence?
The use of this sound element emphasises Li’s emotional performances
What is music or soundtrack?
The contrast between Li’s two homes shows this theme
What is culture clash or transformation?