Watch The Ark of Mr. Chow

The Ark of Mr. Chow is a 2015 Chinese drama directed by Xu Hongyu and starring Honglei Sun, Dongyu Zhou, and Zijian Dong. Set in the late 1960s during the Cultural Revolution, the film tells the story of a father, Mr. Chow (played by Honglei Sun), who is desperate to keep his family together amidst the chaos and turmoil of the era. Mr. Chow lives in a small village with his wife (played by Demi He), his daughter (played by Dongyu Zhou), and his son (played by Zijian Dong). He runs a small grocery store and is known throughout the village for his kind heart and generosity. However, when the government decides to close down all privately-owned businesses as part of their effort to eradicate capitalism, Mr. Chow is forced to shut down his store and find a new way to support his family.

Meanwhile, the Cultural Revolution is in full swing, and Mr. Chow's daughter, Lu Xiaolu, becomes caught up in the fervor of the movement. She joins the Red Guards, a group of young activists who were at the forefront of the revolution, and becomes passionate about the cause. However, her enthusiasm is put to the test when her father is accused of being a counterrevolutionary and is taken away by the authorities to be "re-educated."

Determined to clear her father's name and bring him home, Lu Xiaolu embarks on a dangerous journey that takes her from the countryside to the city. Along the way, she meets a young man named Xu Caifa (played by Zijian Dong), who is also searching for his father, and the two develop a close bond. Together, they face numerous obstacles and challenges as they navigate the complexities of life during the Cultural Revolution.

The Ark of Mr. Chow is a powerful and emotionally resonant film that captures the spirit of an era marked by political upheaval and social change. Through its vivid portrayal of one family's struggles and triumphs, the film offers a poignant and insightful commentary on the human experience at a time of great historical significance. The performances of the lead actors are outstanding, with Honglei Sun delivering a nuanced and deeply affecting portrayal of a father trying to protect his family in the face of overwhelming adversity.

Although the film is set in China during the Cultural Revolution, its themes and messages are universal and applicable to audiences around the world. It explores the timeless themes of love, family, loyalty, and sacrifice, and is sure to resonate with viewers of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you are a fan of historical dramas or simply looking for a moving and inspiring cinematic experience, The Ark of Mr. Chow is a must-see film that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

The Ark of Mr. Chow is a 2015 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 46 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.3.