Movie 64 - Yi Yi

Yi Yi (2000)

by

Edward Yang

Seen and written: 28 December 2017

This is the first film of Edward Yang that I am watching but it sure has piqued my interest in his films as well as new-wave Taiwanese films. The film follows a family in Taipei, from a grandmother to an 8 year old boy. As the title says ('Yi' is one in Chinese), the movie shows us people as individual units in the urban world, each living his/her life, fighting own struggles, finding their joys, and trying to make meaning around things happening. The director takes his leisurely pace with the movie, but the flow is seamless with equally lifelike and seamless performances from the lead cast. As humans, when we set our gaze upon something, other things are out of our vison - this simple, yet powerful thought is narrated to us beautifully from the perspective of Yang-Yang, the kid. Edward Yang also holds true to this thought cinematically, with numerous, beautiful shots along mirrors and glass window panes, showing us two sides/two worlds at the same time. 'Yi Yi' is a masterpiece, and becomes one in silence and simplicity.

Movie 63 - Ixcanul

Ixcanul (2015)

by

Jayro Bustamante

Seen and written: 26 December 2017

I can say without a doubt that this is one of the finest films I have watched in recent times. Each character is strong, independent, yet bound to the family or community by traditions and complex, adaptive way of life. The sense of alienation, neglect, and the fact that the lead characters are being taken advantage of because of their linguistic and geographical differences with the majority, are made evident to us through the splendid yet simple narrative language of the film. A big shout-out to the cast for their stellar performance. A must watch.