Plate 1 The cinematic technique of ‘dotting the dragon’s eyes’ in Song of Youth (1959).

Plate 2 Low-contrast, soft frontal lighting is used to emphasise femininity and Ruan Lingyu’s delicacy of complexion in The Goddess (1934).

Plate 3 A glamorous ‘halo’ effect created by natural backlight in Song of Youth (1959).

Plate 4 The use of backlight enhances glamour, as if light is emanating from the socialist icon. Song of Youth (1959).

Plate 5 Lin Daojing’s glistening eyes shine due to the cinematic technique of ‘dotting the dragon’s eyes’. Song of Youth (1959).

Plate 6 Qionghua’s fiery agitation is enhanced by the use of lighting. The Red Detachment of Women (1961).

Plate 7 Orchestrated by montage, the socialist realist gaze and performative gestures are part of socialist iconography. The Red Detachment of Women (1961).