Confucius

During the Spring and Autumn period in ancient Lu, Kong Ze, known as Confucius, is not a monk but a thinker whose counsel shapes a state. He rises from humble roots to oversee law and governance, guiding Lu to prosperity while facing expansionist Qi. When the neighboring power tests Lu, the people turn to their wise teacher to lead their army. Confucius organizes a formidable defense and wins a difficult battle, challenging the entrenched aristocracy who fear his influence. A man of ideas faces the deadly tug of politics as power, fear, and loyalty collide, testing whether wisdom can rival coercion. The drama follows his resolve and the limits of authority. These events unfold with quiet moral weight for all.

Directed by Hu Mei, Confucius is a historical epic that draws on the life of the famed philosopher as its core material. The production pairs sets with authentic period detail and features an ensemble that brings the era to life.

Though released as a major Chinese language production, the film stands as part of a wave of modern epics that reimagine ancient sages for contemporary audiences. Its scale, star power, and sweeping battle scenes contributed to a renewed public interest in Confucius as a cultural figure in film and literature.

Critics gave the film a mixed reception, echoed by a 6.0 out of 10 average from 106 votes. Viewers emphasize the clash between Confucius wisdom and political ambition, the tension between lawfulness and power, and the cost of leadership, and the burden of converting theory into action and ongoing scholarship.

Box office details for Confucius are not widely reported, reflecting its status as a high profile Chinese drama with a regional focus. It attracted audiences in mainland China and Hong Kong, with limited distribution abroad and ancillary revenue from markets.