Song Of The Phoenix 百鸟朝凤

The annual Singapore Chinese Film Festival 2014 新加坡华语电影节,organized by Singapore Film Society and SIM University, is back with an exciting lineup showcasing the best of Chinese cinema that is held concurrently at The Arts House, National Museum Cinematheque and Cathay Cineplex.

Singapore Chinese Film Festival 2014 is co-sponsored by Spotlight Taiwan Project (special patron Dr Samuel Yin) in collaboration with Taipei Representative Office in Singapore.

Director: Wu Tianming
Cast: Tao Zeru, Li Mingcheng
2013 \ China \ 110min \ In Chinese with English subtitles \ NC16 - Some Coarse Language 些许粗俗语言
Nominated for Best Feature Film at 29th Golden Rooster Awards

The film charts the life and trials of You Tianming, a young suona (Chinese double-reed woodwind instrument) apprentice who goes on to form his very own suona troupe at a time when the traditions of suona music are declining in Chinese society. During the following years Tianming witnesses the decline of ancient traditions, but while suona ensembles break up and fellow musicians gradually drift away to seek work in the city as unskilled labourers, Tianming sticks to his calling, keeping faith with his master’s commitment to the art of suona music. When Tianming’s Master passes away, Tianming plays Song of the Phoenix at his graveside, a piece of music played to commemorate only the most venerated members of the community.