light in the film is also significant. For example, as Nine defiantly prods the mule into a canter in order to escape her father's censuring, the camera captures her literally riding into the brilliant orb on the horizon. Not only does the image capture Nine's strength of character, it also enhances the mythical nature of both the narrative and Nine's character. Indeed, the main characters are often shot against the sun, the blinding light bestowing upon them an aura of vibrancy. One of the most memorable scenes in the film occurs during Nine's journey to visit her father's house three days after her wedding. Passing through Qingsha Kou, Nine seems to hear strange movements amidst the rustling of the sorghum leaves in the strong breeze. Suddenly, from among the sorghum, a masked man appears and abducts her into the plantation. Here begins the breathtaking use of the camera to create suspense, excitement and urgency. As the masked stranger snatches Nine from the mule, he carries her in an unexpectedly primitive manner -- horizontally under his arm -- as if she were no more than a writhing bundle of fabric. The camera pursues the two, only to be met with thick sorghum plants closing behind them like verdant curtains. Their movement amidst the greenery is revealed by a high angled shot showing flashes of red belonging to Nine's outfit. The audience is made to identify with Nine's perspective through a subjective shot as a hand-held camera shows sorghum plants being hastily parted. The camera then tracks parallel to the action, capturing a flurry of movement and blurred faces. It then follows behind the couple as they fall to the ground. In desperation, Nine tries to run away, pushing the sorghum aside as the abductor chases after her. Pausing for a moment's respite after bolting around in confusion, Nine is suddenly confronted by the masked man whom the viewer now strongly suspects to be Yu. Gazing at Nine, the man pulls off his mask, conf...
