Overall Summary
To mark the 40th anniversary of "Liang Shan Po yu Zhu Ying Tai" since it first hit the silver screen back in 1963, this wonderful love story is once again being resurrected into a live stage performance hitting three major cities throughout Taiwan...a place that had given the loudest welcome to Butterfly Lovers back in 1963.
What is so special about this stage performance is the presence of its starpower Ling Po, who returned to her original role as Liang Shan-Po after 40 years. Long after her retirement, the 1960s Movie Queen still finds fans craving to see her in this so familiar role. With tickets sold out for all opening nights, Ling Po not only lived up to her reputation but has also stood the test of time that few performers can pass. Her stardom from yesteryear has not dim a bit.
Also returning to their original roles are 73 years old actor Lee Kun, playing Liang Shan-Po's valet Si-Chiu, and 68 years old actress Ren Jie, who played Zhu Ying-Tai's maid. In addition, the actress who was casted as Liang's mother also returned for the play. The only major cast member not in the original film is Hu Chin, who played Zhu Ying-Tai, as famous actress Le Di passed away 30 years ago.
Performance Review
 Ling Po
After 4 decades, the audience can see their favorite male scholar returning to the stage, whose image is once again impersonated by noone else other than Ling Po. Coming back to her favorite role, Ivy graces the stage with much enthusiasm. Although now in her 60s, the actress's youth-handsome spark from her 20s can still be seen hidden under the currently aged image.
While it can't be compared to her original act from 1963, I must say that Ivy still displayed as strong performance as Liang Shan-Po. Her charm and her wonderful male image have proven that the role belongs to her. One thing didn't change was Ivy's voice...still vivid and crystal (minus the side-effect from the flu). Her singing can be as moving as it was before. For a star who is now 63 years old, I can that she has once again delivered a powerful performance that few can do so.
 Hu Chin
I'm not very familiar with Hu Chin's work and this is my first time seeing her in an official role. While I tried to keep an objective mind, it is quite difficult not to compare her performance with actress Le Di. I must say that Hu Chin did a good job in the role Zhu Ying Tai. However, Le Di had stolen the role. As Zhu Ying Tai, Le Di did an excellent job in displaying her frustration, anger, and grief. As for singing, fans probably won't agrue with me for saying that Tsin Ting's voice is unbeatable. It was more powerful, sweet, and moving.
The Stage
Quite different from Shaw Brothers 1963 'The Love Eterne', this 'Butterfly Lovers 40-Year' is strictly a stage performance. For someone who is from a much younger generation like me, it was a different experience. I guess the original motion picture was too good that it had me set a higher standard for this round...only this stage performance didn't turn out as I had quite expected. In addition, other than Lee Kun and Ren Jie, other supporting cast members did not delivery an exceptional performance like the original ones. Needless to say, this DVD is still a must get for all Ling Po's fans. It's a valuable collection in its own sense.
DVD Information
This movie had been released by Da Da Arts in March 2003 and is avaliable for purchase online. Refer to the "Resources" section for more information on retailers.
Picture: Excellent
Sound: Good.
DVD Code: All Region
Running Time: 200 minutes
Notable DVD Features: Interview with Ling Po, Hu Chin, and other cast members.
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