‘Water Lilies’ and the Journey of Identity
A gentle coming of age story, Water Lilies takes its time in exploring what it’s like to be a young girl trying to make sense of her sexuality in a heteronormative world.

Set during the Zhengde era of the Ming Dynasty, the film follows Zhu Dingcai, grandson of the late Prince Anhua, who was killed after a failed military plea to the emperor. Carrying a blood-written manifesto left by his family, Zhu risks everything to travel to the capital. Using a daring scheme known as "sacrificing oneself to trap the wolf," he successfully eliminates the corrupt eunuch Liu Jin. In recognition of his courage, the emperor grants him the title “Brave Junior Imperial Inspector,” sending him across the empire to investigate local grievances and uphold justice for the people.
A gentle coming of age story, Water Lilies takes its time in exploring what it’s like to be a young girl trying to make sense of her sexuality in a heteronormative world.
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