The Beginning

About This Movie

So, 'The Beginning' takes you to this pivotal summer in 1917, right? It’s a drama that weaves history with the personal. Mao Zedong and his friend Xiao Zisheng, they’re students at Hunan First Normal University, and they’re really grappling with their identity against the backdrop of societal change. It's shot almost like a documentary at times, which gives it this raw, immersive feel. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the weight of their experiences to sink in. You feel their struggles - poverty, idealism, and ambition - all conveyed through solid performances. There’s not much dialogue, which makes the visuals and atmosphere do all the heavy lifting. It’s a unique take on a well-trodden historical path, focusing more on the emotional journey than the politics.

Explores the formative years of Mao Zedong. · Focuses on personal struggles amidst historical events. · Unique visual storytelling with minimal dialogue.