Having trouble understanding the Theme?
well... i guess alotta ppl were expecting hardcore action, heads getting poped open or at least some frontal nude like most american movies.
many ppl fail to appreciate Liao Zhai Zhi Yi(name of the book) because, like many other great chinese classics, some background knowledge is needed. ppl talk about romance/horror/action being the theme, thats true on the surface only. in the original version in Liao Zhai, the author added a note at the ending. "How foolish it is for a man to ignore the advice of those faithful to him. Rather, he believes in those who offer him pleasure."
Still dont get it? Let me ask you this question "When your parents tell you don't have sex with your gf/bf" or "Don't drink/smoke pot/etc" How often do you listen to their sound advice over those of your friends who offer you "lots of fun". While parental methods may be outdated, they come from good faith and true love. Your "friends" may appear to be loving on their "painted skin" but the true demon within may be beyond your comprehension.