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The movie, "Raise the Red Lanterns", by Chinese director Zhang Vamou, uses many detailed film techniques to portray the twisted tale about a young woman, Songlian, forced to give up everything such as personal freedom and choice, to enter the life of a fourth mistress to a very powerful figure. From the beginning of the film, to the end, the directors artistic and clever techniques emphasize SonglianÆs solitude, mental torment and experiences in the insane household, and the distorted relationships between all living under the roof. His techniques include the constant focus on Songlian by herself, the slow moving introduction to the film, his portrayal and significance of the red lanterns throughout the movie, and the way he portrays each character and how they interact with each other and their reactions towards the lanterns. The plotline is based on Songlian and her experiences being forced onto an arranged marriage at age 19 to the powerful figure known throughout the movie only as "master". Her experiences include her interactions and rivalries with the other three mistresses - first mistress, second mistress (Zhaiyun), and third mistress (Meeshan). SonglianÆs solitude is a constant focus, especially during the beginning of