East Palace, West Palace 《东宫西宫》
Friday, September 5
Opening night reception: 6:00 P.M.
Film Screening: 7:00 P.M.
Banned by the government, East Palace, West Palace may be the first Chinese film to explore the subject of homosexuality in China. It follows A-lan, a young gay writer who was arrested for cruising a well-known haunt for homosexuals. After having made advances on Shi, the police officer who busts him, A-lan is arrested a second time. During the nightlong interrogation, A-lan recounts his life story. While describing the persecution homosexuals face in Chinese society, he manages to weave a tale intent on provoking Shi to question his own sexuality.
1996 Mar del Plata Film Festival Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Cinematography
1997 Taorminal FilmFest Award Best Film
