Movie Digest
Before Next Spring is a Chinese film that was released on 2021. The film was directed and written by Li Gen, the plotline of the film revolves around a group of Chinese who are living in Tokyo. The personalities of each person contrast from each other. The common thing they all have is that they live on the margin of society while juggling their studies and work, unknowing of the future, especially those who do not have house permits in Japan. The group of people works in a Chinese restaurant which acts as a platform for their social life. The film shows each of these people’s stories and how they react to situations and circumstances differently while struggling through their battles like loneliness, fear of returning to their home country, etc.
The Feel-Good Part
The plotline is lighthearted yet powerful which leaves a strong impression on the viewers about the life of Chinese immigrants in Japan. The narration is done pretty nicely by the debutant director. The characters are supported by good acting by the actors.
The Disappointing Factor
The characters though, have acted pretty well, but their portrayal of struggling immigrants in a foreign country lacks unconvincing because them looking too pretty as the picture.
In-Depth Analysis
Before Next Spring has been written by Li Gen based on his personal experience as an international student living in Japan, the film shows the daily life of a group of Chinese origin people living in Tokyo with an uncertain future, struggling with life. Before Next Spring manages to keep its viewers engaged with its light weighted approach though the theme is very natural and has its depth. The film brilliantly shows the different difficult emotions every characters goes through and how each of them handles a circumstances with their own touch. Given the history and present relationship between Japan and China, the film has tactfully shown people’s lives without offending both countries.
Star Power
The main cast includes Qi Xi, Xie Cheng Ze, and Qiu Tian. The supporting cast includes Niu Chao, Sylvia Chang, and Fu Jia Hao.
Overall Opinion
The film successfully depicts the life of people living in a foreign country with an uncertain future and the everyday struggle they have to go through, for example, the language barrier, the looming vulnerability, etc. Overall, Before Next Spring is a great watch as the narration and script have been written exceptionally with a natural approach to story-telling. This film is recommended for its good story-telling and direction.
