Dream of the Red Mansions
Based on the famous 18th century Chinese novel of the same name. Mandarin Chinese, B&W, and costume play from 1944 in Shanghai.
Zhou Xuan (周璇), originally named Su Pu (蘇璞), was born on August 1, 1920. Separated from her biological parents at an early age, she was raised by adoptive parents, a journey that led her to spend her life searching for her biological lineage, a quest that remained unresolved during her lifetime.
After being sold by a relative to the Wang family and named Wang Xiaohong, she was later adopted by the Zhou family and became Zhou Xiaohong. At the age of 13, she adopted the stage name Zhou Xuan, with ‘Xuan’ meaning beautiful jade in Chinese.
Zhou’s entertainment career began in 1932 as a member of Li Jinhui’s Bright Moon Song and Dance Troupe. Her talent was evident at the age of 12 when she won second prize in a singing contest in Shanghai, earning the nickname “Golden Voice” (金嗓子) for her high-pitched melodies.
Zhou’s film career commenced in 1935, and she rose to prominence in 1937 under director Yuan Muzhi, starring in Street Angel. She became a marketable and popular singer, with many famous tunes from her movies contributing to her acclaim.
Between 1946 and 1950, Zhou worked extensively in Hong Kong, starring in films such as “All-Consuming Love” (長相思), “Hua wai liu ying” (花外流鶯), Sorrows of the Forbidden City, and “Rainbow Song” (彩虹曲). She introduced “Shanghai Nights” (夜上海) in 1949 and later returned to Shanghai, where her life was marred by mental health issues, leading to multiple stints in mental institutions.
Her most renowned performance remains in Street Angel, featuring timeless songs like “Four Seasons Song” (四季歌) and “The Wandering Songstress”.
Zhou’s personal life was complex and often troubled. She married composer Yan Hua (嚴華), who wrote songs with and for her. She had two sons, Zhou Min and Zhou Wei, from different fathers. Zhou Min was believed to be the son of businessman Zhu Huaide, while Zhou Wei was the son of art designer Tang Di.
Zhou Xuan passed away in a mental asylum in Shanghai on September 22, 1957, at the age of 37. The cause of death is believed to be encephalitis following a nervous breakdown.
Zhou Wei, who resides in Toronto, is a flautist performing in various musical projects and teaching. He has two daughters, both musicians – Zhou Xiaoxuan, a classical pianist, and Amanda Zhou, an actress.
Zhou Xuan’s songs remain a staple in Mandarin popular music collections, showcasing the enduring appeal of her work.
Two biographies have been written by her family members: My Mother Zhou Xuan by Zhou Wei and his wife Chang Jing, and Zhou Xuan Diary by Zhou Min. Her life story has also been adapted into TV series, including TVB’s Song Bird (1989), starring Adia Chan, and a Chinese serial titled Zhou Xuan, starring Cecilia Cheung, based on Zhou Wei’s biography. However, Zhou Wei has criticized this adaptation for misrepresenting Zhou Xuan’s life and tarnishing the family’s reputation.
Based on the famous 18th century Chinese novel of the same name. Mandarin Chinese, B&W, and costume play from 1944 in Shanghai.