“Red Detachment of Women” Response
The film “Red Detachment of Women” is set in a time of political and cultural unrest in Chinese society. The plot follows a former slave named Qionghua who is liberated by a Commander of the Communist Party named Changqing. She eventually takes up arms in the women’s red army and learns the way to nationalism, pride and revenge. There are several main elements in this film which would qualify it as propaganda. When Qionghua and her friend happen upon the women’s Red Army, commander Changqing gives them a word of bravery and perseverance to stir them up. He uses phrases such as “you are the oppressed people who have suffered” and “let’s defeat the evil feudal gentry”. The women respond with great encouragement and will. Qionghua is extremely motivated to partake in the army. When the army first captures Nan Baitian, Qionqhua uses expressions such as “Down with local evil”, “Emancipation” and “Liberation”.
Revenge is a significant topic discussed in the film. Qionghua harbors a deep hatred for Nan Baitian for his corrupt and cruel treatment of her family as slaves under his control. Initially, she seeks to exact her own selfish revenge by shooting at Nan Baitian during a scouting mission. She is scolded for behaving so radically. Changqing warns her that “Every proletarian bears tears in their heart” and not to handle such intense missions alone. Later, Changqing reveals his own private hardship which resulted in the death of his father. Qionghua understands that they are united in their desire for revenge and “animosity” and must act as a single unit. When Changqing is killed, instead of rushing off to avenge his death, she advises the troops to not act impulsively and formulate a plan. They learn to act united and their efforts are rewarded with success with the death of Nan Baitian. These lines help relate to the lives and personal defeats of the people in China at the time. Encouraging them to become a single entity, and unite in their pain to drive out the enemy.
There is an emphasis on the knowledge and nationalism of the communist party. When Qionghua joins the women’s army, she is struck with overwhelming admiration for commander Changqing and her female commader. She often wonders or remarks on “how do they have such knowledge” and “how have