Lost in a television desert ( 2003-09-19 08:44) (Shanghai Star)
I feel I am being hopelessly
stultified by the TV series that I am compelled to hook onto in the evenings to
while away the time - the meagre pension I am entitled to means I have forfeited
my right to gain admission to live theatrical performances.
What's beyond my tolerance is that, clad in ancient costumes, the characters
are speaking a contemporary language chock-full of modern parlance and quips.
Besides, the way they conduct themselves in an ancient play makes the viewers
think of the avant-garde generation. The resulting effect can only be bizarre
and ridiculous.
Next, the passion for martial arts films has not abated. Films of this genre
are being cranked out one after the other. Despite the huge numbers, we are
invariably presented with almost the same plot, the same supernatural powers and
same shallowness and affectation in acting. By the way, the scriptwriters in
this category are especially adept at dismembering historical legends.
Understandably the motivating force behind all this is the box office
revenue, and young people and children are the targeted section of society.
But, strange to say, my grand-daughter, a secondary school student, recently
confided to me that she was utterly disappointed with such silly films that
depict people flying like birds while bent on riveting viewers' attention on
indiscriminate killing. It appears that the film producers should have a rethink
before drawing up plans for their next film production.
Third, Hong Kong and Taiwan actors and actresses are distinguishable by their
sub-standard Mandarin. Mainland audiences can easily pick them out by their
atypical Putonghua. More often than not, we would smilingly tolerate their poor
intonation and encourage them in their efforts to perfect their language skills.
But it strikes me as odd that a number of mainland actors and actresses seem
to spare no effort to parrot their Hong Kong and Taiwan counterparts, priding
themselves on their ability to speak a Hong Kong-styled Putonghua. I admit that
their mutilated use of language not only jars on my nerves but their image is a
nuisance that I'd like to skip over as soon as possible.
The reason? Well, they remind me of some people who are kowtowing to the rich
and powerful while turning a cold shoulder to those who have been their sworn
brothers.
Finally among the galaxy of movie stars are some who still lack the
proficiency in bringing out their characters with distinctive personalities
despite the make-up, the setting and costumes. They mostly remain themselves in
whatever roles they are supposed to play.
It's not my intention to denigrate the film industry as a whole. There's no
denying that it has made scores of brilliant successes in recent years, but
winning accolades and getting rave reviews should not be taken as an excuse to
hide its drawbacks, especially when these are becoming more obvious each day.
Being a fan of TV dramas, I and many others are hoping to see the industry
turn over a new leaf and bring us new stimuli and still greater pleasures.
