Shadow Magic

Shadow Magic (2000)

Beijing, 1902: an enterprising young portrait photographer named Liu Jinglun, keen on new technology, befriends a newly-arrived Englishman who's brought projector, camera, and Lumière-brothers' shorts to open the Shadow Magic theater. Liu's work with Wallace brings him conflict with tradition and his father's authority, complicated by his falling in love with Ling, daughter of Lord Tan, star of Beijing's traditional opera. Liu sees movies as his chance to become wealthy and worthy of Ling. When the Shadow Magic pair are invited to show the films to the Empress Dowager, things look good. But, is disaster in the script? And, can movies preserve tradition even as they bring change?

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  • Release Date: 2000-09-08
  • Runtime: 1h 56min
  • Director: Ann Hu

Where to Watch Shadow Magic Online

You can now watch Shadow Magic online on the following streaming services in the United States.

  • Cast

    • Jared Harris

      Raymond

    • Yu Xia

      Liu Jing Lun

    • Liu Peiqi

      Master Ren

    • Lü Liping

      Madame Ren

    • Yufei Xing

      Tan Xiaoling

    • Jingming Wang

      Lao Liu

    • Li Yusheng

      Lord Tan

    • Yukui Zhang

      Lao Chang

    • Chen Chuang

      Mi Hu

    • Qi Mu

      Jewelry Tower

    • Fang Qingzhuo

      Widow Jiang

    • Li Bin

      Empress Ci Xi

    • Zhang Kang

      Hai Kuan

    • Song Wen-Hua

      San Boro

    • Chen Xueyin

      Chief Eunich

    • Wang Lida

      Head Employee

    • Zhang Xun

      Showcase Lee

    • Yang Fu Sen

      String Master

    • Ma Qi

      Fat Comedian

    • Tong Lian Sheng

      Lean Comedian

    • Tang Liang

      Manchurian Lady

    • Jang Jie

      Manchurian Man