Mao's Last Dancer

Li Cunxin’s (pronounced “Lee Schwin-sing”) best selling 2003 autobiography, tells the story of his journey from a poverty-stricken childhood in rural China, to becoming a leading classical ballet star.

Bruce Beresford’s movie, Mao’s Last Dancer, captured the hearts of people everywhere. Li’s astonishing luck and fierce determination, to the love of his family, country and personal freedom, makes this a movie for anyone with a heart.

This truly moving film is a must see for any ballet loving soul. Li shows that if you have a dream, hard work and determination by pushing yourself to be stronger is the key to success.

In the poverty-stricken country of rural china in 1972, Li (the sixth brother of the family,) is chosen for to go to Beijing and partake in ‘a special test.’ (Of dance.) Li knew that this was a great opportunity for him and his family, and even though he is pushed to his limits, called names and feels like giving up, he continues, with his family in his heart. After years of hard work and not seeing his family, he is taken to America under the wing of the caring dance director, Ben Stevenson. He is wary at first of his freedom, and is told to accept no gifts, and that America is a filthy place, and to represent china a gentle place. He worked hard in America, met many knew people, learnt many knew things, and like most people do there, fell in love.

After his staying period expires, he refuses to go back to China. Being the determined person that he is, he continues to persuade the Chinese and American government to let him stay. Luckily enough, he is allowed to, but freedom comes with a price. There forth, he is banned from ever going back to China. His family could never afford to come to America and visit him; will he ever see them again?

This amazing film is topped off with a twist, that will capture the hearts of millions everywhere.

The true story of Li Cunxin is a truly unique and amazing tale, one not to be ignored. I highly recommend you to get your hands on the film or the book.