The Legend of the White Snake

Seventeen-year-old Xu Mengjiao hears troubling rumors at his private school about his mother’s mysterious identity. Seeking the truth, he returns home to question his family, but finds no clear answers. Guided only by hints and the words of a loyal servant, he is drawn to the foot of Leifeng Tower during a thunderstorm, where his cries awaken attention from the nearby temple. An abbot tells him that to uncover what he seeks, he must achieve fame. Determined, Mengjiao commits himself to study and, years later, returns to Leifeng Tower where a fateful encounter awaits.

Directed by Yang Xiao-Zhong, The Legend of the White Snake leans on a strong ensemble — Chen Yanyan, Tung Yueh-Chuan, Min Sun — 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 1939.