Um Romance do Além

It's not about BL

The movie incorporates elements of fantasy, supernaturalism, and LGBTQ issues. It tells the story of Wu Ming-Han, a straight and homophobic policeman who is forced to marry Mao Pang-Yu, a gay ghost who died under mysterious circumstances.

The duo must work through their differences and join forces to solve a case, seeking justice for Mao and embarking on a ludicrous and tear-inducing journey together.

____ I loved this story, it's wonderful, and it made me laugh, cry, and thrilled.

The movie has so many things going on altogether but the good thing is that you will not get bored.

There must be a reason why this movie is so popular in Taiwan. I had high expectations before I entered the theatre and I was not disappointed. I know the reason now.

First, the cast is perfect. Love the cast. They have a great chemistry together. Greg Han Hsu is amazingly great and sexy in this film. Po-Hung Lin and Gingle Wang also did a great job.

Second, the film is entertaining. There are so many laughable scenes. While some are outdated, but still work. The story is perfect for me. The film delves into many issues. It is about gay, posthumous marriage and also FAMILY. I mean the ending wasn't hard to guess, but is touching nonetheless. I cried so hard.

I wish same-sex marriage can be legal everywhere, and everyone can give their love and support to this.

In fact, the cultural references are so good that it might feel like inside jokes that only ones who have lived the (cross) culture would get. Even though the less familiar audience would definitely still enjoy the storyline/plot and the acting, it worth to watch and rewatch it from the culture aspect to somehow get an idea how the current period of time is happening in East Asia. Social matters (this time, globally) were also mentioned and delivered gracefully (definitely without overdoing anything) along with the main theme, which personally makes me very interested in the screenwriter / director and go on checking out his other works.

A side note; the movie has extra(s) and cut-scenes posted on the internet as promotional materials for the main screening that made the story even more rounded - recommend to check them all out if you enjoy watching the movie.

Whilst out pursuing a speeding joy rider, Wu Ming-Han picks up a red envelope, an envelope that binds him to a ghost wedding, to another guy, after refusing, he discovers a life of misfortune, only an acceptance can change things.

I'm not sure I was expecting such a progressive film to come out of Taiwan, but that's exactly what it is, very progressive, very open minded, and very funny.

I didn't think it was going to be my cup of tea, but I thoroughly enjoyed it, lots of fun, entertaining and at times surprisingly moving. Two hours long, and it flew by, I even stayed up way past my usual bed time to complete it.

Wu Ming-Han is a likeable central character, he's fun, he's very cute, imagine being thrown into his situation.

8/10.

Just watched this film on Netflix and was very impressed. Initially, I expected a light-hearted comedic little film, but it delivered so much more. It masterfully balances hilarious moments with heartfelt scenes.

The two main characters' gay-straight friendship was portrayed exceptionally well, highlighting the importance of acceptance and understanding in friendships despite differences.

I particularly appreciated that the main police character remained "straight" throughout, without resorting to the "turning gay" cliché trope just for the sake of romantic moments. It naturally includes LGBTQ themes without feeling forced, appealing to everyone, not just the LGBTQ community.