Lan Yu (2001)

In the bustling heart of Beijing in 1988, we find Chen Handong, a successful entrepreneur, relishing in the prosperity of his rapidly growing trading company. Coming from a lineage of government officials, Handong's life has been a stream of accomplishments, a facade behind which he conceals his true desires. His attraction lies not with women, but with men. In the same city arrives Lan Yu, an innocent country boy with dreams of becoming an architect. However, his dreams are bigger than his pockets, forcing him to seek unconventional ways of earning money. His path crosses with Liu Zheng, who suggests a one-night stint of prostitution with a local bar owner. Fate intervenes in the form of Handong, who, present at the bar that night, takes Lan Yu under his wing, marking the beginning of a transformative journey for both men. The relationship between Handong and Lan Yu evolves, with the latter finding comfort and security in Handong's presence. Handong, though, is adamant about keeping things casual, warning Lan Yu of an inevitable breakup. He attempts to deflect Lan Yu's growing affection with extravagant gifts, hoping to turn love into dependency. But Lan Yu's faith remains unshaken until he finds Handong in the arms of another man. Their paths cross again on the haunting night of June 4th, 1989. Amidst the chaos of Tiananmen Square, Handong finds himself drawn back to Lan Yu, his concern giving way to an outpouring of lavish gifts, including a villa and a car. They start living together, but the fear of commitment continues to haunt Handong. He embarks on a whirlwind romance with a professional translator, Jingping, leaving Lan Yu heartbroken. Handong's life takes a drastic turn when his company falls under scrutiny, and he faces potential imprisonment. In a twist of fate, Lan Yu comes to his rescue, selling the villa and car Handong gifted him to secure his bail. Just as Handong learns to value his relationship with Lan Yu, a cruel twist of fate awaits them, testing their bond like never before. 'Lan Yu' is a tale of love and sacrifice, set against the backdrop of political unrest and societal norms, exploring the complexities of emotions and the price one is willing to pay for love.

Lan Yu is a drama movie featuring Liu Ye.

Lan Yu is currently streaming on Criterion Channel.