After nearly four decades, one of Hong Kong cinema’s greatest artistic icons, Les Bohemes, officially returns to Vietnamese audiences on the big screen. This 18+ film marks its first re-release in Vietnam’s theaters with the best image quality ever. Fans can now fully enjoy the timeless scenes and the legendary collaboration between Leslie Cheung and Anita Mui.
A Shocking Love and a Century of Sorrow
Adapted from the novel by acclaimed author Li Bihua, Les Bohemes is an adult film that tells a haunting and tragic love story. The narrative shifts between two eras: the glamorous and traditional 1930s and the transformative 1980s.
The story follows the leading lady, Ru Hua, a famous courtesan at the Jade Pavilion, who meets the charming and devoted young master Chen Zhanbang (the Twelfth Young Master). Their deep love faces harsh barriers from family and societal prejudices of the time. In despair, they make a tragic yet liberating choice that leaves viewers heartbroken.
Meanwhile, the 1980s timeline reveals new perspectives. Thanks to the investigative spirit of a young reporter couple, the hidden truths behind Ru Hua and the Twelfth Young Master’s love story are finally uncovered, ready to surprise audiences.
Two Timeless Legends Return to the Screen
The timeless appeal of Les Bohemes is largely due to the outstanding chemistry between two legendary stars, Leslie Cheung and Anita Mui. On screen, they don’t just act, they fully embody the joy and pain of their characters. Through Anita Mui’s performance, viewers feel Ru Hua’s regal beauty and fierce spirit, yet also her deep vulnerability. Leslie Cheung’s Twelfth Young Master appears gentle and refined but carries a fragile loneliness.
Their flawless connection through every glance and gesture has made the Twelfth Young Master and Ru Hua one of the most iconic couples in Asian cinema history. Though both stars have passed away, their talent and immortal aura remain intact, ready to inspire a new generation of viewers in Vietnam.
More than just a romantic tale, Les Bohemes is a masterpiece crafted by the talented director Ann Hui. Made on a modest budget of about 5.5 million HKD, the film earned an impressive 17.5 million HKD, becoming one of the biggest hits of its time. At the 8th Hong Kong Film Awards, it swept seven major prizes including Best Film, Best Director, Best Actress, and Best Screenplay. It also earned a place among the top 100 greatest Chinese-language films of all time according to the Hong Kong Film Awards Association.
With its artistic value, reputation, and the stellar performances of its legendary leads, Les Bohemes offers a priceless nostalgic cinematic experience that fans of Hong Kong cinema in Vietnam should not miss.
This iconic 18+ film will hit theaters across Vietnam starting June 12.
Source: CGV