Movie Digest
It is a touching story about a bond between a grandmother and her grandson that must withstand the ravages of time, fate, and truth. Seven-year-old Huolong learns empathy, humility, and family values from his grandmother’s patience and devotion.
The Feel-Good Part
The cinematography is stunning, from the close-ups that capture the intimate family bonding to the wide-angle shots that show off the beautiful farms and rivers. The scenes of Huolong running through the farms are particularly appealing.
The Disappointing Factor
There is not anything to pinpoint as a disappointing factor.
In-Depth Analysis
The Bamboo Hat is a touching story that makes viewers want to hug their grandmother. The film is both poignant and tragic as it depicts the evolution of a grandson’s love for his grandmother. This film incorporates many Chinese cultures while not being too heavy on foreign audiences. The grandmother hides her son’s disappearance from her grandson, Huolong, so he learns the value of family. As Huolong waits for his father to return home, the pair bonds through sadness, anger, and devotion. As Huolong and his grandmother grow closer, the story becomes increasingly moving. Huolong is initially angry and withholding, but he eventually learns to accept and appreciate his grandmother, even though she keeps his father’s death a secret. Huolong’s portrayal as a rowdy and emotional, but overall good kid, and how that contrasts with his grandmother, who is calm, compassionate, and determined, is fantastic. The message the film portrays is that family is the most valuable thing in the world. It is critical to appreciate our family and everything they do for us.
Star Power
Every actor does an excellent job, but Yanshu Wu, who plays the grandmother, stands out. She expresses all the emotions a grandmother would feel, from frustration to remorse to love.
Overall Opinion
It is a beautiful and moving film to watch with the family that will get you all emotional. Highly recommend it!
