Romance,Drama,Adventure,Thriller
United States of America
Shanghai Express is a 1932 American pre-code film directed by Josef von Sternberg starring Marlene Dietrich, Clive Brook, and Anna May Wong. The film is set in the civil war-era China and tells the story of China's fiery leader "Shanghai Lily" (Marlene Dietrich), who boards the express train from Peking to Shanghai along with a motley crew of passengers.
On board, Shanghai Lily is reunited with her former lover and army captain, Harvey (Clive Brook). Their reunion is cut short when they are taken hostage by a group of rebel soldiers, led by the notorious "White Russian" (Warner Oland). As the train makes its way through treacherous terrain, the passengers must come together to survive, as they are faced with danger at every turn.
As the tension mounts on the train, Shanghai Lily and Harvey's past comes to light and they are forced to confront their feelings for each other. Meanwhile, the other passengers must protect themselves and their belongings from the hostile rebels who are intent on taking control of the train.
The film is notable for its portrayal of a sexually liberated woman, as well as for its exotic setting and stylish visuals. The performances by Dietrich and Brook are also praised, as they bring a depth and complexity to their characters.
Shanghai Express received critical and commercial success, and is now considered a classic of pre-code Hollywood cinema. It was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and won for Best Cinematography.
