The Legend of the Black Scorpion Flashcards
What is Wuxia?
popular Chinese genre nearly 2000 years old. Wuxia films are adventure films that feature martial arts, and its heroes are typically righteous avengers who follow strict codes of justice and loyalty. Usually set in ancient China.
What is the background for the legend of the black scorpion
Crown Prince Wu Luan has been away from the court for three years. His father, the Emperor, has just died, and his uncle Li is now the new Emperor. Li is going to marry his brother’s widow, the Empress Little Wan, who was once loved by Wu Luan before she became his stepmother. (She’s even younger than he is). Other characters include General Yin, his son Yin Sun, and his daughter Qing, who is in love with Wu Luan.
What role does theater and drama play in Legend of the Black Scorpion, and how does this compare/contrast to its use in Hamlet?
Track the film’s use of the motif of the mask. Note a few examples of places where we see this motif. What does it seem to symbolize? Is it associated with particular characters, types of scenes, etc.? What is the relationship between masks and identity in the film?
In Hamlet, Hamlet learns of his father’s murder through the Ghost’s visitation. What is the equivalent of the Ghost in this film?
The film is interested in the idea of performance. Discuss the different types of “performances” that it represents.
