A City of Sadness
Film

A City of Sadness (1989)

2 critics 4 lists ★ 7.5 TMDb 158 min DramaHistory

The story of a family embroiled in the "White Terror," the Kuomintang government's anti-communist political repression that was wrought on the Taiwanese people from 1947-1987.

Movies like A City of Sadness ↓

The Generation GapWhat our critics say

The Craftsman
The CraftsmanGen X

Hou Hsiao-Hsien's majestic, melancholic epic chronicles a family's struggles in Taiwan during the tumultuous "White Terror" period following WWII. Through quiet, observational long takes, Hou captures the profound societal trauma and political oppression without explicit melodrama. It's a poignant, contemplative historical document, reflecting national identity and the scars of a silenced generation through intimate, deeply human experiences.

from “9 Unseen Worlds: Essential Cinema Beyond the Mainstream” →
The Lore Architect
The Lore ArchitectMillennial

Hou Hsiao-Hsien’s epic, contemplative drama chronicles a Taiwanese family grappling with the tumultuous aftermath of Japan's surrender and the subsequent "White Terror" crackdown. It’s a nuanced, often heartbreaking portrayal of history unfolding through intimate lives, delivered with a quiet, observational beauty. The film's measured pace allows for deep reflection on identity, loss, and the silent suffering of a nation.

from “9 Films That Redefine What a 'Must-See' Movie Really Is” →

Featured in 4 lists

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