Set in the fairy-tale wilderness of Hunan Province in the 1980s, “Postman in the Mountains” is visually gorgeous, pleasant and sometimes poignant film of the old story between fathers and sons, tradition and change. Slowed down by arthritis, a middle-aged rural postman passes his route on to his son, whom he takes on his final trip. As the pair and the postmen’s loyal and resourceful dog wander over misty terrain like figures in a Chinese landscape painting, love and proud and dedication reveal as deep as the rich emerald backdrop.

With his father often away on duty while he grew up, the son resented and feared him, and he felt bad for his seemingly abandoned mother. But now, as he experiences the burden that his father his father carries for years; he realizes the far-flung villagers along the mail route depend on the old man, he begins to appreciate the nobility of the profession. Best at its moments of simplest poetry Postmen makes sentiment into art.

The story looks as simple as it can be, yet the postmen’s path is an endlessly rough and lonely journey.

Director's Style:

Most Huo’s films are set in the countryside, and feature simple but tasteful storylines that evoke an almost poetic atmosphere. Those elements, plus the subtle portrayal of personal relationships, have been considered typical of Huo's style. It is this simplicity and subtlety that distinguish his movies from Hollywood blockbusters, which captivate audience with dazzling sounds and special effects.

Postmen in the Mountains continues in Huo's signature style by telling a simple but affectionate story of a bygone age. Although this film reveals the cruelty of time and reality, Huo artfully narrates the tale.

“My films are especially quiet," says Huo. "I'm often soaked in them when I watch myself. I have a strong passion for countryside culture. My films, filled with descriptions of humanity, require with tranquil, calm audience -- only in this mood can you savor the true taste of my movies."

“I’m a man with a soft heart, I cannot face too much cruelty. I would rather create a nice environment. I don't think every piece of art should face reality directly”
 

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