Legend of the Demon Cat (Film)
Overview
Legend of the Demon Cat is a 2017 fantasy mystery film directed by Chinese filmmaker Chen Kaige. The film is based on the novel Samana Kukai by Japanese writer Yoneyama Mineo. It is set during the Tang Dynasty (618–907) in the ancient Chinese city of Chang'an, modern-day Xi'an. The narrative follows a demon cat that disturbs the tranquility of the city, leading to a series of mysterious events. Central to the plot are the poet Bai Letian (also known as Bai Juyi) and the Japanese monk Kukai, who collaborate to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of the beloved Concubine Yang (Yang Yuhuan).
Plot
In the grand city of Chang'an, a demon cat emerges, disrupting the peace and leaving a trail of chaos. Bai Letian, a poet of the Tang Dynasty, and Kukai, a Japanese Buddhist monk, join forces to explore the mysteries behind the cat's appearance, ultimately uncovering the truth about Concubine Yang's untimely death. As the investigation unfolds, secrets buried in the depths of the imperial court come to light, revealing a tale of love, betrayal, and political intrigue.
Cast
Bai Letian: Portrayed by Huang Xuan, Bai is a poet who becomes an amateur sleuth to solve the mystery surrounding Concubine Yang's death.
Kukai: Played by Sometani Shota, Kukai is a Japanese monk with a keen interest in uncovering the truth.
Yang Yuhuan (Concubine Yang): Portrayed by Sandrine Pinna, Yang is depicted as a woman of mixed heritage, symbolizing the cultural exchanges of the time.
Production and Visuals
The production was primarily shot in Tang Cheng, a film set with authentic Tang-style architecture located in Xiangyang, Hubei province. A notable aspect of the film's production was Chen's decision to avoid heavy reliance on computer-generated imagery, opting instead for real-life sets, including planting 20,000 trees to create lush landscapes.
Chen Kaige's cinematic style is defined by his infusion of poetic elements into storytelling. With "Legend of the Demon Cat," he sought to recreate the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty while exploring themes of love, beauty, and political intrigue. Chen's dedication to authenticity in set design is evident in his involvement in the creation of the Tang Cheng film set, a complex that mirrors the architecture and aesthetics of the era. Article reference1. Chen Kaige's new movie sparks polarizing debates. chinadaily.com.cn. 20182. New stills of 'Legend of the Demon Cat' released. chinadaily.com.cn. 2017Photo Gallery（10 pictures）CategoriesArtsTagFilm and TVCatalogue1. Overview2. Plot3. Cast4. Production and Visuals- - - []
