Winter in LA

Watched it at the local film festival in Spain.

Set against the backdrop of a family's struggle ,this is a poignant arthouse film that delves into the complexities of love and identity.

And underneath it all, movie hides a profound examination of the human soul, reflecting the good and the bad on the same plate.

It's defnitely a good storyline, it resonates well with me as I had similar situation with my parents being the first generation here and going through simiar issues.

In terms of cinematography, there are some long shots but it's through these unhurried sequences that the film's true power manifests, so all in all good visual composition, good use of light and decent acting.

This movie explores a marriage in decline, where love has vanished but commitment endures. Both husband and wife, despite being on opposite ends of the conflict, are likable. The film lacks a sense of amusement; there isn't a traditional climax and resolution. Still, dedicated to portraying a declining relationship authentically, it achieves its objective effectively. The movie poses profound questions and paints a vivid picture of human relationships, occasionally leaving certain plot threads unresolved. This deliberate ambiguity may frustrate some viewers seeking closure, but it serves to encourage further contemplation and interpretation of the film's themes.

The movie exudes self-confidence in its pacing, which, I believe, is one of the reasons why it lingered in my thoughts long after I watched it. I appreciated that it presents a different Los Angeles than the usual clichés: no single palm trees, a constant overcast, and rain, enhancing the overall mood of the film.

In conclusion, while 'Winter in LA' may not seem like a film for everyone, interestingly, it offers elements that everyone can relate to in the story.

Nuanced and heartfelt, this is an arthouse indie type that doesn't mind taking its time.

It touches on the big themes of identity, immigration and family through the observation of the small daily interactions, and surprisingly gives the much needed space for so many of the current complex issues faced such as mental health, anti-Asian racism, aging/caretaking and fidelity.

Winter in LA gets into the grittiness of Los Angeles that may often be overlooked and lost in its glitzier and more glamorous counterparts.

A solid ensemble cast brings truthful performances amid the unexpected humor and heartache, this might be the one we didn't know we needed to see.