When it comes to Chinese actors and films of the 1930s, legendary movie star Ruan Lingyu and the silent film "The Goddess" is a classic of classics. On Tuesday, a new restoration of the film premiered at the China Film Archive.

Classic Chinese silent film 'The Goddess' screened

The Goddess is a 1934 Chinese silent movie released by the United Photoplay Service. It stars Ruan Lingyu in one of her final roles, and was directed by Wu Yonggang.

Today, The Goddess is one of the best known films of China’s cinematic golden age, and has been hailed by director Chen Kaige as his favorite film of the 1930s.

It tells the tragic story of a poor mother, who is forced into prostitution in order to raise her child.

"This movie no doubt is one of the most important films in the history of Chinese silent movies. It's one of the top ten Chinese films for sure," Sha Dan, Program Planner of China Film Archive, said.

"Movie soundtracks resonate better based on the ups and downs of the actress's emotions. The music is on the same page with the audience’s feelings toward the movie," a viewer said.

In 2012, the China Film Archive began digital restoration work on "The Goddess". This year, the museum has conducted a second repair and re-dubbing, further bringing out the charm of this classic Chinese film.

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