Characters
Setting/Context
Themes
Film Techniques
Symbols and Meanings
100
This is the main character and the dancer the story is about

Who is Li Cunxin?

100

Mao's Last Dancer is mainly set in this Country

What is China?

100

This theme shows how Li never gave up, even when life was hard

What is perseverance?

100

A flashback helps the viewer understand this part of Li’s story

What is his childhood?

100

Ballet shoes represent this for Li

What is opportunity or escape?

200

This family member supported Li's passion for dance

Who is Niang or Dia?

200

The time period of Li's childhood took place under this political leader

Who is Mao Zedong?

200

This theme explores the restrictions and control of the Communist regime

What is oppression or control?

200

This camera angle is often used to show Li feeling small and powerless

What is a high-angle shot?

200

The iron rice bowl is a symbol of this in Communist China

What is stability or government support?

300

He was Li's dance teacher at the Beijing Dance Academy

Who is Teacher Xiao?

300

The political movement that shaped much of Li’s early life

What is the Cultural Revolution?

300

Li’s relationship with his family shows this emotional theme

What is love or loyalty?

300

The colour palette of Li’s village scenes often uses these tones

What are earthy or dull tones?

300

The kite in the village represents this emotion

What is freedom or hope?

400

This American helped Li defect and stay in the U.S.

Who is Ben Stevenson?

400

The city where Li studied ballet intensively

What is Beijing?

400

This theme is reflected in Li’s struggle between two cultures

What is identity or belonging?

400

This technique is used to contrast China and America

What is cross-cutting or juxtaposition?

400

The locked doors at the consulate represent this

What is restriction or fear?

500

Li's Father worked in this profession back in the village

What is a peasant or farmer?

500

The U.S. city where Li defected

What is Houston?

500

The idea of having freedom to choose your future

What is freedom or independence?

500

The use of this sound element emphasises Li’s emotional performances

What is music or soundtrack?

500

The contrast between Li’s two homes shows this theme

What is culture clash or transformation?

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