Keng Li
Actor
About Keng Li
Keng Li was a Chinese actor who appeared in early Chinese cinema during the 1930s. His only known film credit is in the 1934 silent masterpiece 'The Goddess' (Shen Nu), directed by Wu Yonggang. This film was one of the most significant works of China's first golden age of cinema, produced in Shanghai during a period of tremendous artistic flourishing in Chinese filmmaking. While his role in the film was relatively minor, being part of this groundbreaking production placed him among the early pioneers of Chinese cinema. The film itself was revolutionary for its time, addressing social issues and featuring the legendary actress Ruan Lingyu in the lead role. Unfortunately, like many supporting actors from this era of Chinese cinema, detailed records of Keng Li's life and career are extremely scarce, with 'The Goddess' remaining his only documented film appearance.
The Craft
Milestones
- Appeared in the landmark Chinese silent film 'The Goddess' (1934)
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
While Keng Li himself had minimal cultural impact due to his brief filmography, his participation in 'The Goddess' connects him to one of the most important films in Chinese cinema history. The film was groundbreaking for its social commentary on prostitution and motherhood in 1930s Shanghai, and it helped establish Chinese cinema as a serious artistic medium on the international stage. The film's preservation and continued study means that even minor contributors like Keng Li are remembered as part of this cinematic milestone.
Lasting Legacy
Keng Li's legacy is tied entirely to his contribution to 'The Goddess,' one of the most celebrated films of early Chinese cinema. While his individual performance may not have been particularly memorable, his participation in this landmark work ensures his place in film history as part of the ensemble that helped create this masterpiece. The film itself continues to be studied and admired by film scholars worldwide, representing the artistic peak of Shanghai's golden age of cinema.
Who They Inspired
As a supporting actor with only one known film credit, Keng Li's direct influence on other actors or filmmakers appears to have been minimal. However, his involvement in 'The Goddess' means he was part of a production that influenced generations of Chinese filmmakers and helped establish conventions for social realist cinema in China.
Off Screen
Very little is known about Keng Li's personal life, which was common for many supporting actors in early Chinese cinema. Records from this period are often incomplete or lost, particularly for actors who had brief or minor careers in the film industry.
Did You Know?
- 'The Goddess' (1934) is considered one of the greatest Chinese films ever made
- The film's star, Ruan Lingyu, committed suicide shortly after its release at age 24
- The film was produced during Shanghai's 'golden age' of cinema in the 1930s
- Many records from early Chinese cinema were lost during wars and political upheavals
- Supporting actors from this era are often poorly documented in historical records
- The film was restored in the 2010s by the China Film Archive
- The film's title refers to the protagonist's dual role as both prostitute and devoted mother
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Keng Li?
Keng Li was a Chinese actor from the 1930s who appeared in early Chinese cinema. He is known only for his role in the 1934 silent film 'The Goddess,' one of the most celebrated films in Chinese cinema history.
What films is Keng Li best known for?
Keng Li is known for only one film: 'The Goddess' (1934), a landmark Chinese silent film directed by Wu Yonggang and starring the legendary Ruan Lingyu. This was his only documented film appearance.
When was Keng Li born and when did he die?
Unfortunately, specific birth and death dates for Keng Li are not known. Like many supporting actors from early Chinese cinema, detailed biographical information has been lost to history.
What awards did Keng Li win?
There are no records of Keng Li receiving any awards or nominations. His career appears to have been very brief, consisting of only one known film appearance.
What was Keng Li's acting style?
Due to the limited documentation of his work and the fact that only one film appearance is known, specific details about Keng Li's acting style are not available. He was likely part of the realistic acting style emerging in Chinese cinema during the 1930s.
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Films
1 film
