Pu bu

Psychosis is the theme of this story. I didn't recall any Taiwan product on this topic before, this is probably the first one. Demonstrating this sickness via the drama and help people understanding more on psychosis but in a very nature and moving way. Chia performance no doubt the top notch but I would say this movie give her a limit on her power of acting. I think if the ending is another way, it will make me rate down a lot. Glad it didn't end badly.

Contrary to what the trailer for THE FALLS and the summary of the film posted on the Netflix site suggest, Chung Mong-hong (PARKING) used the current global health crisis not as the main frame of the action , but more like a trigger, for a rich tale of learning and rebirth unfolding over several months. Clearly, these are the cross-portraits of a fighter at the end of the rope, ripe for a healthy change of life, and a capricious young girl, who learns the hard way to become a responsible and generous adult. Along with an empathetic look at mental illness, the script doesn't spare Taiwanese society, exposing some of its flaws with aplomb. Adopting a slow rhythm, at the risk of generating some lengths, the staging is rigorous, cold at the beginning, then gradually warm, while the two protagonists find a certain balance. These are embodied with great nuance and sensitivity by the formidable Alyssa Chia and Gingle Wang.

7/10.

This film explored themes of mental health amidst the coronavirus pandemic, between a mother and her daughter. Personally, this film really moved me, people that have experienced family with declining mental health will understand, as it was portrayed very well.

The film is 2 hours long, I thought it was a good length, people have complained about it being too long, but I disagree, the film took its time in showcasing all sorts of scenarios, following both the mother and daughter throughout its course. Sometimes together, and other times apart.

I enjoyed it thoroughly, the acting was fantastic and the ambience of the movie was great, too. It is a slowly progressing film, but I do think that was intentional, as to reflect on the situation the main characters were in.

Pin-wen (Alyssa Chia) got mental health problems during the COVID pandemic. Her daughter Jing (Gingle Wang), who used to have a strained relationship with her, reconciled with her through various events.

The musical score is truly brilliant, particularly towards the end. Some scenes are pretty funny, e.g. The snake scene (including Liu Kuan-ting's special appearance) and the mental hospital scene. Alyssa Chia's performance simple blows everyone's mind. The result is a moving and heartwarming mother/daughter drama and also a dedication to people with mental health problems.

Loved how this slow-burn family drama quickly escalated in intensity after Covid pandemic. Chung Mong-hong tried to destigmatize mental illness into daily situations. Alyssa & Gingle framed every feeling superbly over strained relationship and life adversities.