After her groom is killed in a bandit ambush, a young peasant bride must move into the home of her wealthy mother-in-law, Madame Liu. In a perverse tribute to her fallen son, Madame Liu imposes on her new daughter-in-law a life of domestic servitude. In the midst of her misery, the young widow finds new romance with another peasant, the gentle and brave Kui. But when Madame Liu discovers her infidelity, she vows to keep the lovers apart.

The Wooden Man's Bride

Set against the background of unregulated coalmining in northern China, the protagonist Guansheng must deal with an unquiet conscience when his mentor, Zhongmin, dies in a mine explosion. Zhongmin's ghost returns with a request which motivates Guansheng out of his lethargy but which will try him to the depths of his soul. (Adelaide Film Festival)