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Summer Palace 2006

“Where did our love go…”

★ 7.3/10 · 115 votes DramaRomance Released
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Quick answer

What is Summer Palace?

"Summer Palace" is a film that explores the life of a university student. Yu Hong leaves her home village to attend university in Beijing, where she begins her academic journey.

Type
Film
Year
2006
Status
Released
Runtime
135 minutes
Release date
May 18, 2006
Original language
ZH
Origin
China, France
Studios
Laurel Films, Dream Factory, Rosem Films
Genres
Drama, Romance
Updated
Availability by region

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Trailer

Overview

"Summer Palace" is a film that explores the life of a university student. Yu Hong leaves her home village to attend university in Beijing, where she begins her academic journey. During her time at university, she develops a significant relationship with another student. The relationship becomes all-consuming and compulsive, deeply affecting her life. The film also depicts the student riots that take place, which have a profound impact on the characters' lives. The events of the riots are a pivotal moment in the story, and their consequences are far-reaching. The film provides a glimpse into the lives of university students during a tumultuous period, showcasing the complexities and challenges they face.

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Should you watch it?

“A village girl’s university love collides with China’s 1989 upheaval.”

Reasons to watch
  • Explores personal love amid historic turmoil
  • Authentic depiction of 1980s Beijing student life
Keep in mind
  • Political content led to controversy for its makers
  • Intense scenes may be unsettling for some viewers

Watch it if you’re interested in intimate stories set against pivotal Chinese history.

The film contains intense political themes and mature relationship scenes.

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Frequently asked questions

When was Summer Palace released?

It was released in 2006.

What genres does the film belong to?

It is classified as drama and romance.

Where does the story take place?

It follows a student from a village who studies at university in Beijing.

What historical events are featured?

The narrative includes the 1989 riots in China.

Was the film controversial?

Yes, its political content got its makers into trouble.