Introduction The Great Chinese Proletarian Cultural Revolution (GPCR) is a well-documented period in world history, but the most profound documents are found brought to life in literature and films later in the 20th century, respectively. One of the most profound novels is "Living", written by Yu Hua, which as fictional fiction offers a unique and realistic sense of the time period on an individual level. However, the provocative film adaptation directed by Zhang Yimou in 1994 was so terrific that it was banned in mainland China. Zhang paints a more realistic picture of how the GPCR has affected Chinese society, but adds flavor to Hua's ambiguity but acceptable imperfection. Of course, the film has many different characteristics but still manages to overcome the challenges that come with film adaptations. This analysis focuses on the differences between Hua's novel and Zhang's film by juxtaposing two key themes and double symbolism that had changed from one format to the other. . The article is divided into two parts and begins with an introduction and analysis of Yu Hua's novel and Zhang's film. Finally, the second part analyzes the film's and novel's representations of two themes and symbolisms that connect to the GPCR. This article posits that although Zhang's film contains many adjustments based on his adaptation, such changes were not simply a means by which he would achieve the status quo, rather they were a means by which the film could become more realistic and take advantage of the true nature of the GPCR.Part OneThis part is divided into two subtopics. The first subtopic offers a summary of the book and contains spoilers. The second subtopic summarizes the film. Both summaries incorporate key events in both forms......middle of paper......Erxi die? Although there is no indication in the novel as to why he died, it is quite obvious that the reason he died in both films is because, at one point, he represented the wave of the future; Communism. In other words, Erxi's death represents the end of the GPCR. Concurrently, at the end of the film, when Mantou's question about chickens leads to the same parable that Fugui mentions to Youqing in the novel. However, the twist lies in Fugui's inability to respond when Mantou asks what comes after the ox. Fugui is at a loss for words, Jiazhen says that Mantou will ride on the back of an ox but Fugui continues and states: “Mantou will not ride on an ox, he will travel on trains and planes. And life will continually improve” (Hua, pp. 242-243). Works Cited Hua, Y. (1993). Live. New York: Anchor Books.Zhang, Y. (Editor). (1994). Living [film].