This is a comedy drama from Clifton Ko, filmed with a 1940s backdrop when Hong Kong was reeling from World War II. We get to see the livelihoods the family featured in the movie, from growing up to making sacrifices during the war, and from romantic relationships to making ends meet. Somehow, all the fortune and well-being of the family members center around the proceeds they make from selling umbrellas (hence the English title of the film). However, the literal Chinese title of the film translates to "Family Love."
It's a sweet little movie with comedic and dramatic moments and will make you reminisce of your family and childhood memories. However, the acting was a little sub-par and the overall plot was a little slow. The movie was released almost during the same time as another family drama from Hong Kong, Ann Hui's Summer Snow, starring Josephine Siao. It doesn't meet the quality and captivation of Summer Snow, but this film isn't all bad to pass the time with. It has its heartfelt and tender moments.
Grade C+
