Sung by Jay Chow himself, the theme song "Golden
Flowerbed" refers to another key factor: The Chrysanthemum. Talking about the
flower, Zhang Yimou revealed his approach.
Zhang said:"I thought to myself: The flowers and
swords should be taken from China. And the classic image of the chrysanthemum
can be traced way back. I drew inspiration from the golden flower and put it in
my picture."
Chrysanthemum patterns and ornaments can be seen
throughout the film, in the furnishings and costumes.
Zhang said:"All these chrysanthemums are not
just for a facade of gaiety. It's not that simple. We use them for expression of
characters' emotions."
Zhang said:"Troops are deployed across Chang'an, a
city of golden flowers. You can't find anything wrong at first look, but think
twice, it actually means rebellion."
Actress Gong Li said:"The Golden flower is a symbol
of rebellion. It's a main archetype in the film."
The empress favors the flower as well, in her hair,
on her robe, even in embroideries. As the filmmaker suggests, the flower reveals
her determination to resist her husband's rule. That results in large-scale
battle, in a sea of blooming chrysanthemums.
Zhang said:"To be brief, the symbol of the
golden flower can not be overshadowed by other elements."
The drug, the flower and the color gold, these are
some of the key factors. But they can't summarize the whole picture. To know
more about the mysterious city, you'll have to wait for the premiere.
(Source: CCTV)
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