Raise the Red Lantern (1991)

Directed by: Zhang Yimou

Adapted from Wives and Concubines by Su Tong

Awards: Silver Lion at 48th Venice International Film Festival

Set in the 1920s, the film tells the story of Songlian, who becomes the third concubine of a wealthy man. After marrying in, Songlian soon discovers that not all the concubines receive the same treatment. The master decides on a daily basis whom he will spend the night with, and lights the red lantern in front of her room. Pitted in constant competition against each other, the three concubines are constantly vying for their husband's attention and affection.

Chinese figures in Venice	16 Chinese films with a Cannes Award	Chinese at the Oscars