In 1980s China many taboos still remain, despite the death of Mao Zedong. Li Min, a young Chinese-Russian orphan, leaves to study with a renowned botanist. A secretive man and an authoritarian father, the professor lives on an island that he has turned into a luxuriant botanical garden. Forced to lead a solitary existence and treated much like a servant, his daughter Cheng An gladly welcomes the arrival of the new student. Soon the two young women find their friendship developing into an attraction that is compelling, sensual and forbidden. Incapable of separation, An and Min then discover they have created a dangerous situation in order that they may continue to spend their lives together.
A very beautiful, romantic and poignant film, made with a sensitivity that captures the essence of forbidden love. The story contrasts the innocence of a desire for happiness which harms no other, with the prejudices and disapproval of a society which fears non-conformity. The filming locations in Vietnam (unfortunately Dai was refused permission to shoot in China) provide the most stunning visuals, whilst the cinematography is just breathtaking and the musical score hypnotic.
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