Yue Lao

Alan, the main character, is struck by lighting, leading him to the underworld, where he figures his past lives and meet Pinky. With him in danger of being an animal on his next life, he decides to apply as a god of love (partnered with Pinky).

The story provokes the concept of life and death, delving deep into various topics of Chinese Mythology. Concept wise, Allan's dedication and sacrificing nature aches my heart, especially with his neverending pursuit towards Xiaomi, the love of his life. He continues protecting her even afterlife, oblivious to Pinky's blooming love towards him. Though Xiaomi was able to let go of him on the ending, we arrive on the sweet ending of Pinky and Allan meeting again, but as children with no memories of one another.

The main issue with this movie is its pacing. There are a lot of scenes that doesn't make sense, unless you overanalyze it, or perhaps know a thing or two on Chinese Mythology. Despite its issue, it was able to give an emotional resolution for the problem, explaining the past despite its ragged pack of scenes.

Another issue is its romance. I believe they're trying to force the two (Allan and Pinky) of them together, but it really does not work lol. Allan's character is written with love + Xiaomi all over again, its obvious. The ending was its last push to make it seem... less forceful.

Despite the movie's flaw, it's great nonetheless. Still one of my favorite movies due to its concepts. I am a sucker for reincarnation stuff lol.

You could call this a romantic film but you can also call it a fantasy. Either way, it's a great one and a nice try for Taiwanese film. I have watched the director's and the two protagonists' films from You are the Apple of my eyes, our times. Both of them are typical, touching teenager love stories,this one reaches out to the afterlife and reincarnation,a recreation of the another world. And it also includes some vulgar and erotic jokes, just like the director's first and signature one. All in all, it's moving, refreshing, genuine and a good one.

While staying interesting and never boring, Till We Meet Again's rushed narrative only makes it feels more like a summary than a feature film with a complete arc. As result, the film suffers greatly from underdeveloped characters and undercooked plot points. The genre-changing is also a tad abrupt instead of organic. The premise probably will be fleshed out better as a series instead of a film.

Yue Lao is by absolutely no means perfect, nor can it even be considered well filmed, well scripted or even well acted, but I am absolutely in love with it. There are definitely some awkward moments earlier in the film, but as the film goes on you realize its tremendous world building. It's so rare to see a Chinese fantasy film's world created in such a manner, and that is kudos to Nine Knives. Combined with what Taiwanese film makers are best at, love stories, the film is an instant classic. The film also has taken so much from other genres, from traditional horrors, Wuxia, etc, it's just such a rare and enjoyable experience.

As long as you can ignore early slapstick moments and some illogical plot holes, you'll be entertained by Giddens Ko's signature romantic drama with unique touch of fantasy, horror and thriller. Hands down to Kai, Gingle, Vivian who tied all the emotional strings handily.