Eng
中文

The Horse Thief

  • Dir: Tian Zhuangzhuang

  • 1986, 1986, 88minmins, DCP

  • Cast: Cexiang Rinzin, Dan Jiji, Daiba, Gaoba

Cited by Martin Scorsese as one of the best films of its time, The Horse Thief is a crowning achievement of the Fifth Generation of Chinese filmmakers. Director Tian Zhuangzhuang’s sublime drama is both an engrossing study of a Chinese minority people – the rural tribes of the remote Tibetan mountains – and a visually stirring parable of transgression and redemption. Tribesman Norbu dutifully abides by his Buddhist faith, yet has to betray his religion by stealing horses in order to support his family. Banished by his tribe and then beset by tragedy, Norbu decides to reaffirm his faith, only to have it tested once more. Using stark landscapes, meticulous cultural details, and a spare screenplay, Tian’s cinematic allegory examines the conflicts and contradictions at the heart of a rapidly-changing China. The restored vivid colors demand to be seen on the big screen and highlight the soulfulness of the film’s breath-taking landscape.

 

    Screening:

    In-theatre Screening

    • Full House2018-08-26 (Sun)
      17:45

    Remarks

    * Please click here for the footnote on Dogme 95.

    1. On-the-day Ticket Purchase Arrangement : Tickets are available at URBTIX outlets until one hour before the screening, after which tickets are available at URBTIX website and mobile app. On-the-day tickets will also be available at the Self-service Ticketing Kiosk of the respective venue, subject to availability.
    2. Unless otherwise stated, all films (except English-speaking films) are subtitled in English.
    3. While it is the HKIFFS’s policy to secure the best possible print of the original version for all its screenings, the HKIFFS appreciates its patrons’ understanding on occasions when less than perfect screening copies are screened.