戏台 The Stage

Synopsis

Directed by and starring Chen Peisi, with Huang Bo, Jiang Wu, and Yin Zheng in leading roles, this film is adapted from a Douban 9.2-rated stage play of the same name. Set during the war-torn years of the Republic of China, it tells a comedic yet tragic story of a theater troupe leader who steadfastly upholds the belief that "the show must go on." Douban rating: 8.0.

Overview

"The Stage" is a 2025 Chinese mainland comedy historical drama film directed by and starring Chen Peisi, with Huang Bo, Jiang Wu, Yin Zheng, and others in leading roles. The film is adapted from Chen Peisi's critically acclaimed stage play of the same name (Douban score 9.2) and was released in mainland China on July 17, 2025.

Set against the backdrop of a Peking opera stage, the film depicts the capital city during the chaotic warlord era of the Republic of China. A newly arrived General Hong and a newly returned Wuching Opera Troupe come together to stage a thrilling performance of "Farewell My Concubine."

The film received excellent reviews upon release, with its Douban score rising from 7.9 to 8.0, and its total box office exceeding 100 million RMB within just two days of release.

Plot

During the Republic of China era, wars were frequent. Hou Xiting (Chen Peisi), the head of the Wuching Opera Troupe, brings a group of renowned performers to the Dexiang Grand Theater.

However, who would have expected that the finale performer would turn out to be Dasang'er (Huang Bo), a steamed bun shop assistant? A warlord randomly demands performances, the troupe struggles to cope, and a farcical chain of mistaken events unfolds.

General Hong (Jiang Wu), who has just captured the capital, has only a superficial understanding of Peking opera but insists on directing the show. The Wuching Troupe navigates precariously between brute force and art, generating endless laughs while also revealing the pain of art being trampled upon.

"The Stage" wraps blood and tears in laughter, allowing audiences to confront the weight of cultural heritage while roaring with laughter. The film uses极致 physical comedy to deconstruct the spiritual dilemmas of intellectuals in turbulent times. Chen Peisi vividly portrays the troupe leader's slickness and perseverance, while Huang Bo perfectly captures the simple honesty of a common man.

Cast

Production & Reception

Director Chen Peisi is one of China's most famous comedy actors. "The Stage" was originally his stage play, which received extremely high acclaim since its premiere in 2015, with a Douban score of 9.2.

After a decade of refinement, Chen Peisi brought this stage play to the big screen. In 2025, at the age of 72, Chen Peisi made his cinematic return with this film.

Huang Bo's first involvement injected new commercial elements into the film. As one of the most commercially bankable comedy actors in mainland China, the collaboration between Huang Bo and Chen Peisi attracted significant attention.

Cultural Impact

"The Stage" perfectly embodies the concept that "the core of comedy is tragedy." The film hides the pain of art being trampled within its humor, as well as the steadfast belief that "the show must go on."

The film represents a successful attempt at adapting Chinese stage plays for film, proving that high-quality stage play IPs possess strong vitality on the big screen as well.

References

1. Douban Movie: https://movie.douban.com/movie/subject/35483395/
2. Baidu Baike: https://baike.baidu.com/item/戏台
3. Gamersky: https://www.gamersky.com/news/202507/1967754.shtml
4. Sohu: https://www.sohu.com/a/902083794_121627717