LOW-CARBON AESTHETIC PERFORMANCES IN CHINESE KUNGFU FILMS: A RE-EXAMINATION OF CINEMATIC ACTING CONCEPTS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17501/24246778.2025.9106Keywords:
Chinese kung fu film, film performance, low carbon performance, sustainable aesthetics, performance aesthetics, audience perceptionAbstract
It is widely recognized that there are three major systems of film and television performance: the psychological-experiential approach rooted in Stanislavsky’s method, the Hollywood "star" system, and the European symbolic tradition. Each system reflects different cultural and aesthetic priorities, yet they also face limitations in the context of contemporary audience expectations and well-being. This study investigates the concept of "low-carbon performance aesthetics" as a new approach to cinematic expression, particularly within Chinese Kungfu films. It addresses the need for more emotionally sustainable, realistic, and ethically grounded acting styles in action cinema.The research adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining textual analysis of selected martial arts films with expert interviews and audience surveys. The study closely examines representative works featuring Jackie Chan and Jet Li, including Police Story and Fearless, alongside a comparative case study of Infernal Affairs and The Departed. These films illustrate contrasting performance styles that align with or deviate from low-carbon aesthetics. Findings suggest that "low-carbon performances" are characterized by emotionally restrained yet deeply expressive acting, which minimizes psychological overstimulation while enhancing viewer empathy and character credibility. Rather than relying on exaggerated emotions or star charisma, these performances emphasize authenticity, moral integrity, and subtle embodiment of character. The study contributes to the theoretical development of film performance studies and offers a framework for rethinking martial arts cinema through the lens of ecological aesthetics and cultural psychology. It also encourages a shift in audience expectations—from spectacle-driven entertainment toward more meaningful and introspective cinematic experiences
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Copyright (c) 2025 Guangsheng Meng
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
