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One dilemma for every TV or film maker who is ambitious enough to re-shoot the classics is whether to innovate or maintain the tradition. One example of putting a modern spin on a classic tale can be seen in a new version of "Journey to the West."
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One example of putting a modern spin on a classic tale can be seen in a new version of Journey to the West.
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"Journey to the West" is one of the Four Great Classics of Chinese Literature. Based on the real event of Tang Xuanzang's pilgrimage to India in the Tang Dynasty, the story depicts the adventure in a magical way.
Contrasting the ancient story, the new version is packed with high-tech special effects. And that's not all. For decades, Monk Xuanzang has carried the stereotype of a man with delicate skin and cowardly temperament. However, the new Monk Xuanzang looks much tougher than that.
Nie Yuan, actor as Monk Xuanzang, said, "Monk Xuanzang was on the road for some twenty years and covered thousands of miles through twists and turns. I believe this character is much closer to the real one."
Not only the Tang monk, but also the Monkey King and Pig have received critical acclaim.
It isn't a surprise any more for the reproductions of classics to be both hailed and hated at the same time. Old versions of the Four Classics have played hundreds of times. These images and stereotypes have been etched into the memory of many generations. Even with help from high-tech pictures, new versions find it difficult to break through these old characterizations.
What's more, in a fully commercialized market, speed and action is much more favored than depth. Old versions of the Dream of Red Mansion took six years from cast selecting to shooting. It would be impossible for today's producers to wait that long.
Sun Sha, director, said, "It takes quite a long time to digest such a great work. If not, so-called different interpretations would not help make the play better."
Actually, a different interpretation has always been a sore point among directors. Audiences expect something new, but at the same time, they don't feel comfortable with changes to the original story, creating a dilemma for TV and film makers.
Zhang Jizhong, producer, said, "I think respecting the spirit of the original work is far more important than copying the storylines. We want to imbue modern elements into it. How to stay true to the original masterpiece - that is a question. I'm open to suggestions and criticism."
No matter the outcome of the innovation, producers hope audiences will remain tolerant.
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