55 Days at Peking (1963) Watch Online Free
Diplomats, soldiers and other representatives of a dozen nations fend off the siege of the International Compound in Peking during the 1900 Boxer Rebellion. The disparate interests unite for survival despite competing factions, overwhelming odds, delayed relief and tacit support of the Boxers by the Empress of China and her generals.
55 Days at Peking is a historical epic set during the Boxer Rebellion in 1900, focusing on the 55-day siege of the foreign legations in Beijing. The film dramatizes the defense of foreign nationals, including diplomats and missionaries, against the violent attacks of the Boxer rebels, who are supported by the Qing Dynasty’s Empress Dowager Cixi. Charlton Heston plays Major Matt Lewis, a U.S. Marine officer, who becomes a central figure in the defense efforts. Ava Gardner portrays Baroness Natalie Ivanoff, a Russian noblewoman, and David Niven stars as Sir Arthur Robertson, the British Minister to China. As the siege intensifies, the foreign defenders are forced to confront not only the physical threat of the Boxers but also the complex political and cultural tensions surrounding their presence in China. The story culminates with the arrival of the Eight-Nation Alliance, a coalition of military forces from several Western countries, which lifts the siege and forces the Empress to confront the collapse of the Qing Dynasty.
The film tackles themes of imperialism, cultural conflict, and the clash between East and West. While 55 Days at Peking is a spectacle-filled war film, it also delves into the tensions between foreign powers and the Chinese people, offering a glimpse into the final years of the Qing Dynasty. The Boxer Rebellion itself symbolizes the desperation of a nation struggling with its identity and sovereignty in the face of foreign intervention. The characters in the film, particularly Major Lewis, embody the complex relationship between military duty, personal honor, and the larger political landscape. The film critiques imperialism, showing how foreign intervention can often exacerbate conflicts rather than resolve them.
The portrayal of the Empress Dowager Cixi, played by Flora Robson, adds a layer of tragedy to the film. Her belief in the traditional power of the Qing Dynasty, coupled with her desperation to preserve her empire, contrasts sharply with the encroaching modernity represented by the foreign powers. The emotional weight of the film is underscored by the growing realization that the Qing Dynasty is nearing its end, symbolizing the collapse of an ancient system of rule.
55 Days at Peking was a commercial success and is remembered as part of the wave of large-scale historical epics produced in the 1960s. Its lavish production values, including impressive battle scenes and a star-studded cast, contributed to its popularity. However, it also faced criticism for its somewhat simplistic portrayal of the Boxer Rebellion and the lack of depth in its depiction of Chinese characters and perspectives. Despite these criticisms, the film remains an example of 1960s Hollywood’s penchant for turning historical events into action-packed spectacles. The film also reflects the era’s fascination with grand historical narratives, often focusing on Western viewpoints while downplaying the complexities of the cultures being depicted.
After watching 55 Days at Peking, you may feel a mixture of awe and reflection. The film’s grandiose battle sequences and the emotional weight of the characters’ struggles might leave you feeling stirred by the intensity of the siege. The portrayal of the collapse of the Qing Dynasty could evoke a sense of historical melancholy, as the film paints a picture of an empire in its final days. You might also feel a sense of unease regarding the film’s depiction of cultural and political tensions, which may prompt you to think critically about the historical context and the legacy of imperialism. Overall, the film offers both thrilling action and moments of introspection, making it a thought-provoking experience.
