The Chinese feature film “Beyond the Clouds” has captivated audiences with its moving portrayal of Zhang Guimei, a heroic rural school teacher whose life story is nothing short of inspirational. The film, which adapts Zhang’s extraordinary journey, has touched the hearts of many viewers, conveying a powerful message about the transformative power of education and selfless dedication.
Zhang Guimei is renowned for founding China’s first free all-girls high school in Huaping county, Yunnan Province. This institution has been instrumental in changing the lives of over 1,800 girls from impoverished backgrounds, empowering them to step out of their mountainous confines and pursue their collegiate dreams. Zhang, as the head of this groundbreaking school, traversed more than 100,000 kilometers, visiting over 1,300 underprivileged families. Her unwavering commitment earned her the title of “Outstanding Chinese principal.”
Yang Jin, one of the film’s directors, expressed deep admiration for Principal Zhang, describing her as a selfless warrior wholly devoted to her students. The film, which premiered in late November, has not only been a box office success, grossing over 75.96 million yuan, but also a critical success, resonating with a wide range of audiences.
The film’s title, “Beyond the Clouds,” is inspired by the high school’s pledge, symbolizing the aspirations and struggles of overcoming adversity to reach new heights. The narrative focuses on the school’s initial three years, portraying the challenges and triumphs faced by Zhang and her students. The filmmakers opted for a realistic storytelling approach, making significant revisions to the original script after conducting thorough research in Yunnan.
Yang recalled a poignant moment during a visit with Zhang to a local area, where they encountered two sisters from a divided family. The elder sister was a student at the high school, and Zhang persuaded the younger sister to stay and study there, offering to cover her expenses. This incident highlights Zhang’s foresight and commitment to protecting the dignity and well-being of her students.
One of the film’s unique aspects is its casting; the actors are actual students from Yunnan, not professionals, adding an authentic touch to the film. They underwent intensive training to adapt to acting in front of the camera. The film’s approach to performance was grounded in naturalness and authenticity, allowing for spontaneous actions and dialogue to enhance the sense of realism.
Hai Qing, who portrayed the 66-year-old Zhang, spent considerable time understanding her character. She described Zhang as a woman who transcends ego, completely devoted to the welfare of her students, embodying selflessness in every aspect. This role, according to Hai, has profoundly impacted her, leaving her with a deep appreciation for the school’s ethos of resilience and self-determination.
“Beyond the Clouds” is more than a film; it’s a celebration of a remarkable individual’s life and legacy. It underscores the profound impact of educators like Zhang Guimei, who dedicate their lives to empowering the younger generation, reshaping their futures, and in turn, influencing society at large. The film stands as a testament to the notion that loving and investing in oneself and others can create life-changing opportunities and legacies that last a lifetime.
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