An eccentric, wild ride between fantasy and reality, unspoken desires and compromises, with some acidic remarks on the movie industry and struggling artists, some cleverly embedded comic-sarcastic scenes and a few caustic philosophical questions. Revolving around the insecurities, as well as the need of inspiration and affirmation caused by a writer's block, and presented in a dark, bold and unorthodox way, this might not be for everyone, but it surely is a wacky, surreal experience.
Set in a one night's time frame and filmed with intoxicating lighting and colouring of the busy streets of nocturnal Taipei, with an absurd, unpredictable plot and a quirky mosaic portrait of various characters that are misfits and petty criminals (quite usual for Chung Mong Hong's works) but most of all trapped, unhappy people, even if it doesn't really have a clear storyline or belong in a specific genre, it definitely is an interesting experience, like a free-verse modern poem rich in images and emotions.
An absorbing documentary about the restoration of ancient artworks in the museum of Forbidden City, the techniques used, the restorers' personal backgrounds, secrets of their craftsmanship, their master-apprentice relationship and, of course, some wonderful cultural relics. The picturesque scenery, the utmost perseverance and care of the those skillful technicians during the long, careful restoration process, as well as how they enjoy this quiet lifestyle were engaging and soothing to watch.
An absorbing documentary about the restoration of ancient artworks in the museum of Forbidden City, the techniques used, the restorers' personal backgrounds, secrets of their craftsmanship, their master-apprentice relationship and, of course, some wonderful cultural relics. The picturesque scenery, the utmost perseverance and care of the those skillful technicians during the long, careful restoration process, as well as how they enjoy this quiet lifestyle were engaging and soothing to watch.
An entertaining historical drama, more focused on mystery and hidden identities rather than romance. For those who are looking for a romcom in a historical setting it might be slow-paced and disappointing, but I really liked the leads' camaraderie, bantering, support and teamwork. Nothing memorable, but a decent one-time watch.
An introspective coming of age story of a quiet but quick-witted boy’s lonely emotional quest to find his place in an unwelcoming bleak world, full of misfits and petty criminals. Though flawed, over-quirky, with some pacing issues, it still is a worthy watch, mainly due to the nuanced performances -especially from talented child actor Xiao Hai Bi-, the subtle but sharp social commentaries on some heavy issues, the captivating cinematography with carefully selected lighting and colors, the wonderful landscape shots and the well-fitting musical arrangements.
A slow-burn fave, with down-to-earth characters and one of the most precious bromance ever! No romance or legal cases could surpass this strong, vibrant friendship among those three men who may be the polar opposites but support, comfort and be there for each other like a warm hug through thick and thin. So realistic, natural and wholesome as if they weren't acting but really living and enjoying their scenes. Time well spent.
A based on a true story and very predictable tearjerker, more beautified than necessary and not very strong on the emotional scenes. A decent watch but nothing memorable or new. But, watching young Nagayama Eita and Eikura Nana, and realizing how graceful they matured and how their acting improved was quite rewarding.
Healing through art (ink wash painting in particular) AND Yokohama Ryusei and Kiyohara Kaya in the cast! A lighthearted coming of age story with absorbing visuals of wonderful works of art and astonishing ink painting performances. Perfect for a weekend watch.
Superbly acted, written and filmed, this is a poignant and intimate study of a special mother-daughter relationship, as well as a thoughtful but piercing social commentary on the triggering impact of COVID pandemic on mental health and socioeconomic issues... Rich in emotions, symbolisms and metaphors, with a refreshingly unpredictable plot, this slow-burn family drama is an underrated little gem. Highly recommended.
An emotional road movie with minimal plot and dialogues, but rich in encounters and silent moments. Ando Sakura really shone through the intimate filming of this lonesome journey.
An office-centred story, dealing with some common office politics, conflicts and scheming in a light-hearted, comic way. Though the employee cases were resolved in a simplified and sugary way, the cute and fluffy romance and the leads' chemistry were more than enough to make this short drama an enjoyable watch.
A satisfying woman-centered plot with a FL that keeps on growing stronger and not becoming a damsel in distress during the second half of the drama, as in most cases happen. Fierce, headstrong, passionate people following their dreams, growing their characters and friendships, never giving up even if the whole world is against them. Stubborn but compassionate, frustrating and a bit too loud most of the times, but adorable and cute.
"Bees aren't built to fly but somehow they manage it. Know why that is? Because they think they can."
A whimsical fairytale-like story, full of eccentric characters, adorable children and wonderful Hokkaido scenery. Too long and too perplexing, but the coming of age and children friendship plot, as well as some cleverly put metaphors, some peculiar choices for the music, costumes and sets, made this an interesting watch.
Brutally honest and painfully realistic depiction of the struggles and overwhelming feelings while caregiving loved ones with dementia. A difficult but eye-opening watch.
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Revolving around the insecurities, as well as the need of inspiration and affirmation caused by a writer's block, and presented in a dark, bold and unorthodox way, this might not be for everyone, but it surely is a wacky, surreal experience.
The picturesque scenery, the utmost perseverance and care of the those skillful technicians during the long, careful restoration process, as well as how they enjoy this quiet lifestyle were engaging and soothing to watch.
The picturesque scenery, the utmost perseverance and care of the those skillful technicians during the long, careful restoration process, as well as how they enjoy this quiet lifestyle were engaging and soothing to watch.
For those who are looking for a romcom in a historical setting it might be slow-paced and disappointing, but I really liked the leads' camaraderie, bantering, support and teamwork.
Nothing memorable, but a decent one-time watch.
Though flawed, over-quirky, with some pacing issues, it still is a worthy watch, mainly due to the nuanced performances -especially from talented child actor Xiao Hai Bi-, the subtle but sharp social commentaries on some heavy issues, the captivating cinematography with carefully selected lighting and colors, the wonderful landscape shots and the well-fitting musical arrangements.
No romance or legal cases could surpass this strong, vibrant friendship among those three men who may be the polar opposites but support, comfort and be there for each other like a warm hug through thick and thin. So realistic, natural and wholesome as if they weren't acting but really living and enjoying their scenes.
Time well spent.
But, watching young Nagayama Eita and Eikura Nana, and realizing how graceful they matured and how their acting improved was quite rewarding.
A lighthearted coming of age story with absorbing visuals of wonderful works of art and astonishing ink painting performances.
Perfect for a weekend watch.
Though almost 2 hours long, both love storylines felt rushed and underdeveloped.
Rich in emotions, symbolisms and metaphors, with a refreshingly unpredictable plot, this slow-burn family drama is an underrated little gem.
Highly recommended.
Ando Sakura really shone through the intimate filming of this lonesome journey.
Fierce, headstrong, passionate people following their dreams, growing their characters and friendships, never giving up even if the whole world is against them.
Stubborn but compassionate, frustrating and a bit too loud most of the times, but adorable and cute.
A whimsical fairytale-like story, full of eccentric characters, adorable children and wonderful Hokkaido scenery.
Too long and too perplexing, but the coming of age and children friendship plot, as well as some cleverly put metaphors, some peculiar choices for the music, costumes and sets, made this an interesting watch.
A difficult but eye-opening watch.