Watch Xiao Hua

Xiao Hua is a 1979 Chinese film directed by Jianxin Huang. The film tells the story of a young girl named Xiao Hua, played by Xiaoqing Liu, who grows up in a small village in rural China. Despite her humble beginnings, Xiao Hua is determined to make something of herself and leave the village behind. Her dreams finally start to come true when she is accepted into a prestigious acting school in Beijing.

The film begins with Xiao Hua as a young girl who has a talent for singing. She frequently performs at local events and everyone in the village is amazed by her beautiful voice. However, her family is too poor to afford to send her to school, so Xiao Hua spends most of her days selling pencils on the street.

One day, a traveling theater troupe arrives in the village and Xiao Hua is captivated by their performances. She starts to dream of becoming an actress herself and decides to choose a stage name for herself, which is also the title of the film. Her determination to succeed leads her to run away from home to pursue her dreams.

Xiao Hua's journey takes her to Beijing, where she auditions for a prestigious acting school. Despite her lack of formal education, Xiao Hua is accepted into the school because of her raw talent and her willingness to work hard.

Once at the school, Xiao Hua struggles to adapt to the new environment. She is from a rural background and has never been exposed to such a sophisticated city lifestyle. Xiao Hua's roommate, played by Joan Chen, comes from a wealthy family and is used to a life of luxury. The contrast between the two girls is stark, and they initially dislike each other.

However, as the months pass, Xiao Hua and her roommate start to bond over their shared love of acting. Xiao Hua also becomes close friends with her acting teacher, played by Guoqiang Tang, who recognizes her talent and helps her to grow as an actress.

Throughout the film, Xiao Hua faces numerous challenges, including financial difficulties and homesickness. However, she remains determined to succeed and refuses to give up on her dreams of becoming an actress.

The film's tone is optimistic and inspiring, with a message that anyone can achieve their dreams if they work hard enough. Xiao Hua's story is a testament to the power of determination and perseverance in the face of adversity.

Overall, Xiao Hua is a heartwarming and inspiring film that tells the story of a young girl's journey to achieve her dreams. The film's excellent performances and beautiful cinematography make it a true gem of Chinese cinema.