Xiong shi shao nian

This animation is one of the 2021 movies that raised a hot debate. But in my personal opinion, I am What I am is an awesome Chinese movie.

The story is about a weak teenage boy called A Juan, who's also passionate about lion dancing, a traditional Chinese art performance in which performers mimic a lion's movements in a lion costume, takes part in the top lion dance competition for the honor and money and his journey of it.

Some criticized it for the characters' appearance, saying it uglifies Guangdong people; some think the Lion dancing learning is too fast and too unrealistic. Well, those make sense in some way, but hey, it's animation after all(not a documentary), we use exaggerations all the time. As a drama/animation, it's nothing wrong when the director puts the focus on the growth of the character rather than discussing how we learn the traditional lion dancing for like 10 years.

The reasons I like this movie are:

a. This movie chooses to tell a story that we aren't that familiar with, which is rather bold a move in China. In most cases, this usually means a bad box office. But this movie conveys a good concept that a good Chinese animation movie can independently discuss local culture and local stories. It doesn't have to be those big IPs like the Monkey Kind(Sun WuKong) or Nezha(Deity), that it can be recognized and appreciated by the audience even if none of the characters are famous.

B. The first half part of the movie is quite relaxing, you laugh with the boys and you look for a master with them. And you laugh because they are funny, the twists are natural, not deliberately designed.

C. The end part is realistic. After A Juan went won first place in that competition, he is still down to earth and went to Shanghai for work. I especially like the part where he already decided to give up but on seeing the competition he just plucks up the courage and goes back to the game. The struggle is impressive and tense.

This one absolutely inspires! A story with a core inside-or should I say a "ROAR" inside. Everything about this movie is great: the cinematography, the jokes, the culture, and the traditions.

The degree to which it reflects reality is one of the reasons I consider it a success. The main character feels close to you because the background is so relatable in China. The vivid animation transports you to that beautiful southern Chinese village-you can almost smell the grass, feel the flow of the river, and hear the hustle and bustle of the streets during the day. I especially appreciate the contrast between the warmth of the village and the coldness of the city.

A lion's heart means bravery, but not ignorance, because it must come from something bigger than yourself. The main character demonstrates this through his journey of change and evolution of mentality, something we can all relate to when we first start questioning whether to chase our dreams.

Ironically, while some critics attack the production company for being too stereotypical about Chinese culture, this has, in a way, made the movie itself mirror the main character's struggle.

I finally had the chance to sit down and watch I Am What I Am, a Cantonese animated film that has been in my collection for some time. Watching the story of Ah Juan, I couldn't help but see myself in him-a "stubborn dreamer," as described in the Cantonese song by Wan Kwong. Like Ah Juan, I am someone who refuses to give up and persistently chases my dreams.

Ah Juan's Story and My Connection

Ah Juan is a boy from a rural village in Guangdong. Despite going through a heartfelt and inspiring lion dance journey, the film ends with him remaining a struggling worker in the city. This made me reflect: What does striving for success truly mean? Has his hard work really changed his destiny? The material hardships of his life remain, but his dreams and inner strength have become more real and empowering.

This lion dance journey is like a shot of courage. While it doesn't immediately lift him out of poverty, it grants him a force that transcends material limitations-a sense of self-realization and identity. This resonates deeply with my own life. Growing up in a small town in Chongqing, moving north for education, working hard in Guangdong, and now pursuing my dreams in Japan, I see parallels in our stories. While my environment hasn't drastically changed, the growth of my inner strength and determination is something I choose to cultivate.

Competition and Pure Kindness

The competitive scenes in the film feel raw and authentic. Behind the lion dance tournaments lie layers of strategy and rivalry, mirroring the harsh realities of society. However, when Ah Juan challenges the towering pole that symbolizes the pinnacle of the competition, his rivals abandon their competitiveness and genuinely cheer for him. That moment touched me deeply. Though they remain rural kids, their pure goodwill shines through, showcasing the beauty of human nature.

This scene gave me a glimmer of hope for Chinese society. Even though I chose to "run away" and start anew abroad, my love for that land and its culture remains. I still believe in the kindness and hope inherent in our people and traditions.

A Remarkable Soundtrack

The film's soundtrack is another standout feature. A blend of Cantonese, Mandarin, and other dialects, the music perfectly complements the story. The stirring and uplifting melodies amplify the determination of the young lion dancers, adding a rich emotional layer. The music feels like an integral part of the characters, syncing with their heartbeat and dreams, making their aspirations shine even brighter.

Conclusion

I Am What I Am is more than just a story about lion dancing; it's a tale for every dreamer. Even if our circumstances don't change overnight, the struggles we endure bring our lives depth and strength. Like Ah Juan-and like the "stubborn dreamer" I see in myself-I will continue steadfastly on my journey of chasing dreams.

A nice story with a straightforward story plot. Some funny moments but might be insensitive at times, so should watch without overthinking it. Quite like the actions although it might be a little fast. Good show of characters.

Storyline is clear and concise, music is good, characters are vividly impressive. 10 out 10 in my mind. The product is impressive in an era when hundreds of garbage movies are flooding in the market just to make a quick buck.