Shi Li
Actor
About Shi Li
Shi Li was a Chinese actor who appeared during the early sound era of Chinese cinema in the 1930s. His only known film credit is in the 1934 classic 'Plunder of Peach and Plum' (桃李劫), which was one of the earliest significant sound films produced in China. This film was directed by Ying Yunwei and produced by the Diantong Film Company, representing a crucial period in Chinese cinematic history when the industry was transitioning from silent films to talkies. Shi Li's brief appearance in this landmark film places him among the pioneering actors who helped establish the foundation for Chinese sound cinema. Unfortunately, like many actors from this early period of Chinese film history, detailed records of his life and career are scarce, and he appears to have had a very short-lived acting career that was confined to this single notable production.
The Craft
Milestones
- Appeared in 'Plunder of Peach and Plum' (1934), one of China's earliest significant sound films
Best Known For
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Shi Li's contribution to cinema, while minimal in scope, is part of the broader historical significance of early Chinese sound films. 'Plunder of Peach and Plum' was a groundbreaking work that addressed social issues and represented the left-wing film movement in China during the 1930s. As one of the actors in this pioneering film, Shi Li participated in a crucial moment when Chinese cinema was establishing its artistic voice and technical capabilities in the sound era.
Lasting Legacy
Shi Li's legacy is primarily tied to his participation in 'Plunder of Peach and Plum,' a film that has been preserved as an important work in Chinese cinema history. While his personal legacy may be limited due to his brief career, the film itself continues to be studied by film historians and scholars interested in the development of Chinese cinema and its social commentary during the politically turbulent 1930s.
Who They Inspired
Due to his extremely brief film career, Shi Li's direct influence on other actors or filmmakers appears to be minimal. However, his participation in early Chinese sound cinema contributes to the collective influence of that generation of actors who helped establish the foundation for future Chinese film performers during the transition from silent to sound films.
Off Screen
Very little is known about Shi Li's personal life due to the limited documentation of early Chinese cinema actors. His brief appearance in only one film suggests he may have been a bit player or someone who pursued acting only briefly during this transitional period in Chinese film history.
Did You Know?
- 'Plunder of Peach and Plum' was one of the first Chinese films to successfully synchronize sound and image
- The film was produced by the Diantong Film Company, which was known for its left-wing political leanings
- The film's title refers to a Chinese idiom about the exploitation of students and intellectuals
- 1934 was a crucial year for Chinese cinema's transition to sound technology
- Many actors from this early period of Chinese cinema have incomplete or lost biographical records
- The film addressed social issues like unemployment and the struggles of educated youth
- Early Chinese sound actors like Shi Li had to adapt their performance styles for the new medium
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Shi Li?
Shi Li was a Chinese actor from the early sound era of Chinese cinema, known only for his appearance in the 1934 film 'Plunder of Peach and Plum.' His career appears to have been extremely brief, limited to this single significant film production.
What films is Shi Li best known for?
Shi Li is known only for 'Plunder of Peach and Plum' (1934), which was one of China's earliest and most important sound films. This film is considered a classic of Chinese cinema from the 1930s.
When was Shi Li born and when did he die?
Unfortunately, specific birth and death dates for Shi Li are not available in historical records, which is common for many bit players and early actors from this period of Chinese cinema.
What awards did Shi Li win?
There are no records of Shi Li receiving any awards or nominations, which is typical for actors with very brief careers in early cinema, especially those who appeared in only one film.
What was Shi Li's acting style?
Specific details about Shi Li's acting style are not documented, but actors in early Chinese sound films were transitioning from the exaggerated expressions of silent cinema to more naturalistic performances suited for sound recording.
Films
1 film
