A bit too imaginary.

The original story was set some time in the late 1700's, before the French revolution. The events in story were closely tied to the specific social mores and conventions of that time. For example, mistress and paramours were socially acceptable though not usually openly acknowledged. A liaison was not scandalous as long as it was "in good taste". Flirting was not only open but an integral part of the social interactions. People socialized strictly within the same class and the worst thing is for one to be shunt by one's own class. Social power was tied to wealth, as well as charm and wit. Etc.

Alas, China in the 1930's wasn't like that at all. The culture is far, far different. "Good women" in general did not socialize with men. Wives could have their mah-jongg gatherings; and men had parties with courtesans in "houses of pleasure". Even in family gatherings, men and women would tend to separate. Flirting would cause instant public outrage.

Thus, all the man-woman interactions in the movie look and sound fake (to me). The seduction of Beibei (Solange in the book) is down right embarassing.