At a recent book launch for “Only One Guo Baochang” held at the Sanlian Taofen Bookstore in Beijing, renowned actors Liu Peiqi and Chen Baoguo, among others, shared heartfelt memories of the late director affectionately known as “Bao Ye.” The term “Ye” is a respectful title in Beijing dialect, and its frequent usage in their remarks reflects deep admiration and nostalgia for Guo Baochang.
It has been a year since the sudden passing of Guo, often referred to as “Bao Ye.” In honor of his legacy, the Sanlian bookstore published “Only One Guo Baochang,” a collection of Guo’s unpublished essays, along with memorial pieces from his close friends and family, showcasing his unique talent and charm.
Reflecting on a moving moment from a “Da Zhai Men” theater performance earlier this year, Liu Peiqi shared how he knelt in tribute to the late director, bringing tears to the eyes of the audience. Their relationship began during the production of the television series “Da Zhai Men.”
“Bao Ye was a significant benefactor in my life,” Liu explained. “Initially, the producers were against my casting as Bai Yingyu, suggesting my face was too stern for the role of a Beijing aristocrat. They thought a farmer or a worker would suit me better. But Guo Baochang insisted on me, even when Li Chengru was originally slated for the part. It was serendipitous that I ended up in that role.”
Liu emphasized Guo’s sincerity as a defining trait. “His genuine passion resonated in his writing and interacting with actors and crew members. His honesty and devotion to the arts are rare qualities.”
Chen Baoguo also revealed his emotional struggles upon hearing of Guo’s passing. “When I learned of Bao Ye’s death, I was truly taken aback. I had planned to tell him at the farewell ceremony, ‘You’ve guided me; I need to make you proud!’ But since he wished for simplicity in his farewell arrangements, I shared these sentiments on social media instead.”
Like Liu, Chen’s connection with Guo began through “Da Zhai Men,” which he described as a fortunate experience, witnessing the creation of a classic work. He recounted a particular incident on set when Guo was gravely ill yet refused to seek medical help, declaring he had work to do. “We had to carry him to the hospital one day when he collapsed. He insisted on knowing the filming schedule even while recovering,” Chen said.
In a playful reenactment of a hospital conversation, he recalled asking Guo about his wishes regarding the series, to which Guo enthusiastically responded affirmatively. The audience erupted with laughter and applause at the vivid storytelling.
Director Xie Fei remembered Guo from their days at the Beijing Film Academy in the 60s, stating, “Looking back, Guo Baochang was the only true genius among the nearly 200 directing students of that era.”
“Only One Guo Baochang” chronicles Guo’s experiences through significant family upheavals, showcasing his upbringing, his mentor’s influence, and his relationships within the theater scene. Through his eloquent writing, Guo reflects on the complexities of his life and the era he witnessed, offering insights into the human condition and diverse experiences.
