Dear members of the Academy:
I would like to
strongly caution you against any award considerations for ‘Forever Enthralled’,
a Chinese language film by director Chen Kaige, in the category for Best
Foreign Language Films.
One
of the main characters (Qiu Rubai) was developed based on my great-grandfather,
Mr. Qi Rushan, a renowned Chinese language author, historian and ambassador to
world culture. Mr. Qi was one of the first in China to study English and European
languages and introduced European Opera techniques to Peking Opera practices. He
was also the one who introduced Peking Opera singer Mei Lanfang to US audiences
during their tour to California
in the late 1920s.
The film has
intentionally distorted historical facts, depicting Mr. Qi as a murderer, a
homosexual and most of all, a traitor to his country. Director Chen Kaige has
repeatedly violated historic facts and public trusts to promote his personal
goals. ‘Forever Enthralled’ is just another example of his sleazy acts in the
name of an artist. The film has violated the rights of Mr. Qi and hurt the
feelings of his extended family.
We strongly urge
you, members of the Academy, to uphold your professional standards. Say no to ‘Forever
Enthralled’. Say no to dishonest movie making.
Sincerely yours,
Zoe Wan
Great Granddaughter of Mr. Qi Rushan
Pasadena, California