THE FAREWELL (2019)

Written &; Directed By: Lulu Wang 
Cinematography: Anna Franquesa Solano 
Editor: Michael Taylor & Matt Friedman 

Cast: Awkwafina, Tzi Ma, Diana Lin, Aoi Mizuhara, Shuzhen Zhou 

A headstrong Chinese-American woman returns to China when her beloved grandmother is diagnosed with terminal cancer. Billi struggles with her family's decision to keep grandma in the dark about her own illness as they all stage an impromptu wedding to see grandma one last time.

Even going into this film knowing the story doesn’t fully prepare you for the film.

It’s a life affirming film that might come off as dark when you learn what the film is about but also is a film that stays positive and makes you appreciate family and what you have and to find the rewards in it.

As a cloud of sadness hangs throughout the film. There are scenes that come off as more comedic. Not in a broad sense but in character more. As those moments feels more human and come from an awkwardness but also general emotions and feelings.

The film also takes on subjects that run inherent in family. As well as discussing the differences between west and eastern cultures and their beliefs. While never deciding which is better.

The cast is a great ensemble all around. They never come off as false or a caricature.

Even though Awkwafina truly shows herself as a capable actress and an engaging on screen presence. Who handles her leading role with pinache.

Shuzhen Zhou who plays the grandmother is also a standout as a character who is so full of life even as she is unknowingly dying and still manages to run her household and impart wisdom to her family. While slowly revealing more and more about her as a character and her past.

Every detail is lovingly presented. It never becomes cynical or hard hearted and even provides a worthwhile ending.

There is tension but also a certain joy throughout. As it is wildly emotional but must stay suppressed and it seems as if most of the characters are fighting with themselves to a degree. When it comes to humanity and tradition of their culture. Not to mention the old east vs west debate.

There is nothing wrong with the movie at all but it does reserve itself for a certain kind of film going experience.

This is definitely a film more to experience. As it takes it’s time to tell it’s story. It’s a tearjerker 

Grade: B+