Illustrious Energy aka: Dreams of Home - 1988
DVD UPC/EAN # 9418212012277
Cast: Shaun Bao, Harry Ip, Peter Chin, Geeling, Desmond Kelly, Peter Hayden, Heather Bolton.
Screenplay: Martin Edmond, Leon Narbey; Photography: Alan Locke; Production Design: Janelle Aston; Editor: David Coulson; Original Music: Jan Preston; Percussion and voices: Don McGlashan; Producers: Don Reynolds, Chris Hampson; Director: Leon Narbey.
Two poor Chinese gold miners in Otago in 1895 dream of returning home after 12 years. Chan has a wife in China, as well as a child that he has not seen. One day they find enough gold to pay their debts and return home. Chan goes to town to buy supplies and pay the debts. He encounters prejudice, religion, opium, hookers, the circus, and love (among other things). Despite a tempting offer to stay with the circus and the beautiful Li, he opts to return to his old friend so that they can fulfil their dream of returning home - things don't go as planned, however. Some rough edges, but excellent photography and soundtrack. Some dialogue problems that could have been resolved with the use of subtitles, but generally a well crafted product. Filmed near the Central Otago communities of Alexandra, Cromwell and Clyde; also some footage at or near Balclutha, Oamaru and Dunedin. Definately recommended.
Censor Rating: PG -- Review Rating: B
Official MP4 Clip
