Movie Digest
Taken inspiration from the novel “Moses on the Plain” (平原上的摩西) by Shuang Xue Tao (双雪涛), Fire on the Plain (平原上的火焰) is a debut film of the Chinese director Zhang Ji. The sweet romantic, action thriller aired on 21st September 2021 at the San Sebastian Film Festival. The story revolves around two high school sweethearts who have lost touch as they grow up into adults. Both of them are rendered to reunite due to unavoidable circumstances when the main protagonist, who grew up to be a police officer, comes across a grave homicide in which the female lead actor, Li Fei, stands as a witness in it.
The Feel-Good Part
The appealing get-together of the couple is sure enough to evoke the butterfly feelings in a viewer’s stomach, leaving them mesmerised by the captivating acting of the two. The film noir setting of the movie plays a huge part in creating a gloomy yet nostalgic scene for the plot, considering the past memories of their high school years. With a running time of 115 minutes, the cinematography and picturesque shooting elevate the sensations of the audience. Moreover, the chemistry between the lead actors is another of the plus feel-good parts that a viewer can look forward to before tuning into the film.
The Disappointing Factor
Amidst the guaranteed romantic tension in the Fire on the Plain, it’s a slightly a day of disappointment for fans looking for an action-filled time. Since the film is deeply engrossed in exploring the link between the couple and how they reconcile – sustaining their relationship when the stark realities hit – it falls short of the thriller anticipated by many.
In-Depth Analysis
Situated in the northeast of China, the Zhuang Shu is involved in investigating a horrendous murder case of a taxi driver. Coincidentally, the friend with whom he had promised to meet after the end of high school years before remembering to maintain contact. Twelve years later, both stand before each other without a clue about their regular lifestyle and culminating thoughts. The plot beautifully retells the rebuilding of their long-lost connection along with the action and thriller promised. The realism deployed in the film by the director highlights the hard, impoverished social conditions of the times in Northeast China. With this boy-meets-girl melodrama, he focuses on the daily material conditions of the working class, commenting on far-reaching social issues.
Star Power
The starring cast includes some flavorful actors such as Zhou Dong Yu as Li Fei, Liu Hao Ran as Zhuang Shu, Mei Ting as Fu Dong Xin, Wang Xue Bing as Li Shou Lian, Yuan Hong as Jiang Bu Fan, Lu Yu Lai as Sun Tian Bo, and Chen Ming Hao as Zhuang De Zeng.
Overall Opinion
It is a recommended watch for people looking forward to passing their time through both the innocence of a sweet love story and the political and social climate of contemporary times.
