Far Away from Home

Zhi Xiang, new to Rome, resented his brother Zhi Yuan's arrangements and grew close to the Gao family. Zhi Yuan, once a singer, now worked as a porter after a skiing accident ruined his voice. Zhi Xiang, burdened by debts, considered quitting school, but Zhi Yuan urged him to keep studying. Zhi Xiang met Zhu Dan Li, a wealthy girl, and spent time with her despite his financial struggles. She insisted on accompanying him, but he refused to skip classes. Zhu Dan Li later returned to Rome, and Zhi Xiang, unable to arrange anything for her, realized his limitations. Zhi Xiang, immersed in art in Switzerland, forgot his studies. Zhi Yuan, thinking Zhi Xiang was in love with Yi Hua, tried to guide him. Zhi Xiang returned to Rome after feeling guilty, but his art failed. Zhi Yuan fell ill from overwork and was hospitalized. Zhi Xiang took his brother’s job. Eventually, Zhi Yuan recovered, married Yi Hua, and they prepared to return home.

Directed by Pai Ching-jui, Far Away from Home leans on a strong ensemble — Charlie Chin Chiang-Lin, Hsia Ling-Ling, Terry Hu — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 1977.