Core Viewpoint - The film "The Stage" marks Chen Peisi's return to the big screen after 32 years, facing competition from other summer releases, leading to a delay in its premiere from July 17 to July 25 [1][2] Group 1: Film Background and Reception - The film is adapted from a highly acclaimed stage play that had 335 performances and a Douban rating of 9.0, creating a dual-edged sword of expectations among audiences [2] - The film's initial reception is influenced by nostalgia for Chen Peisi's past performances, but younger audiences may not be familiar with him, impacting box office performance [12][13] - The film has grossed over 3.5 billion, but its momentum is slowing as it competes with other films like "The Little Monster of Langlang Mountain" and "Nanjing Photo Studio" [1] Group 2: Story and Themes - Set during the warlord era in the Republic of China, the film juxtaposes the chaos of war with the everyday lives of citizens who continue to enjoy traditional performances [2][4] - The narrative explores the absurdity of power dynamics, where an unqualified warlord disrupts a theatrical performance, highlighting the intersection of art and authority [5][6][8] - The film reflects on the struggle between survival and artistic integrity, emphasizing the importance of continuing to perform despite external pressures [7][9] Group 3: Character Development and Artistic Intent - Chen Peisi's character, the troupe leader, embodies the tension between adhering to artistic traditions and the demands of a powerful figure [10][14] - The film's portrayal of characters navigating absurd circumstances serves as a commentary on the broader societal chaos of the time [8][9] - Chen Peisi's return to film is seen as a personal and artistic milestone, reflecting his long-standing commitment to the craft of comedy and theater [15][16]

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the return of Chen Peisi, a prominent Chinese comedian, to the film industry with his new movie "The Stage," which is adapted from his successful stage play. The film aims to reach a wider audience and continues to explore themes of comedy and human resilience in challenging times [1][2]. Summary by Sections Movie Background - "The Stage" is set to officially release on July 25, 2025, and has already grossed over 500 million yuan during its preview phase as of July 22, 2025 [2]. - The film is based on a stage play that premiered in 2015, which has been performed over 360 times and attracted more than 350,000 viewers [2]. Creative Process - Chen Peisi, at 71, faces the challenges of directing and producing a film in a vastly changed industry, transitioning from film to digital technology [2]. - The film's narrative revolves around a theater troupe in the early Republic of China, dealing with the pressures of war and authority while trying to maintain their art [6]. Themes and Characters - The film features a variety of characters, including a theater manager and a famous opera performer, each representing different responses to the pressures of their environment [6]. - The story emphasizes the importance of theater as a sanctuary for people, with the characters facing moral dilemmas in a chaotic world [7]. Family Legacy - Chen Peisi's son, Chen Dayu, also stars in the film, continuing the family's legacy in comedy. Chen Peisi reflects on the influence of his father, who inspired him to pursue a career in comedy to bring joy to the audience [4][5]. Future Prospects - There are discussions about adapting another play, "Dream," into a film, which Chen Peisi believes is more suitable for cinematic representation due to its grander scale [8]. - Chen Peisi firmly states that traditional sketches cannot be adapted into films due to their structural limitations, emphasizing the need for appropriate content for film adaptation [8].

Core Viewpoint - The film "The Stage," directed and starred by Chen Peisi, is set to release on July 25, 2023, and is adapted from a successful stage play that has been performed over 360 times, attracting more than 350,000 viewers [1][2]. Group 1: Film Overview - "The Stage" tells the story of a Peking opera troupe during the early Republic of China, exploring themes of survival under oppression and the choices made by various characters [1][6]. - The film has already grossed over 500 million yuan during its preview phase, indicating strong initial interest despite competition from other films [2]. Group 2: Historical Context and Legacy - Chen Peisi's career in comedy began in 1979 with the film "Look at This Family," marking a significant moment in post-Cultural Revolution Chinese cinema [4]. - The "Erzi Series," a collaboration between Chen Peisi and his father, Chen Qiang, established a foundation for Chinese comedy films, focusing on father-son dynamics and societal themes [5]. Group 3: Audience Engagement and Future Projects - The film's premiere was attended by notable figures, including Chen Peisi's long-time collaborator Zhu Shimao, who expressed concerns about the film's box office performance [6]. - Chen Peisi is considering adapting another play, "Dream of Awakening," into a film, which may present higher production costs due to its larger scale [9].