"The Taking of Tiger Mountain," the 2014 film, is based on the true story of a People's Liberation Army (PLA) reconnaissance soldier, Yang Zirong, who infiltrated a bandit gang in northeast China in the winter of 1946 during the Chinese Civil War. The story is also adapted from the novel "Tracks in the Snowy Forest" by Qu Bo and the patriotic opera of the same name.
Key aspects of the true story and the film:
Yang Zirong's Infiltration:
Yang Zirong, a real-life PLA soldier, disguised himself as a bandit to infiltrate a local gang and ultimately help the PLA eliminate them.
Setting:
The story is set in northeast China during the Chinese Civil War, specifically in the aftermath of the Japanese withdrawal.
Focus on a Specific Incident:
The film focuses on a specific incident involving Yang Zirong's infiltration and the PLA's mission to take Tiger Mountain from the bandit stronghold.
Patriotic and Action-Oriented:
While based on a patriotic story, the film leans towards a rousing action-adventure narrative.
Framing Device:
A framing device in the present day connects the story to the present, suggesting the legacy of Yang Zirong and the importance of preserving the story.
Real and Fictional Characters:
While Yang Zirong and many of the bandits are based on real people, some characters, like Shao Jianbo, are fictionalized.
The film captures the essence of the true story by:
- Highlighting Yang Zirong's bravery and strategic thinking.
- Depicting the harsh conditions and brutal fighting during the Chinese Civil War.
- Explaining the importance of the mission to take Tiger Mountain and its impact on the PLA's efforts in northeast China.