100 Days

100 Days is a heartwarming, romantic drama that explores themes of tradition, love, and familial relationships. This Chinese-language film, released in 2013, was directed by Henry Chan and features star-studded performances by Chang-Mien Chang, Akira Chen, and Tracy Chou.

The plot of 100 Days revolves around the conventional yet touching concept of an arranged marriage. However, the movie turns the conventional trope on its head with a refreshing approach that challenges traditions and explores modern values.

Chang-Mien Chang steps into the shoes of Bo Dan, the protagonist of the movie. He's a driven, successful businessman working in a bustling city, miles away from his rural home. The hustle and bustle of the city life have kept him disconnected from his family and his roots for more than a decade.

Bo Dan's life takes a drastic turn following the sudden demise of his mother, which leads him back to his remote, beautiful village. It is on his return that he gets to know about his mother's dying wish. In order to pay respect to his late mother, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and realisation of the importance of tradition, family, and love.

Simultaneously, the film introduces us to Akira Chen's character, Yo Yo, who is unpretentious and delicate, teeming with small-town virtue. Her portrayal of the cheerful, benevolent, and family-oriented young woman is captivating and instantly pulls at the heartstrings. The bond between Yo Yo and Bo Dan is an essential part of the narrative and provides the emotional backbone of the film.

Tracy Chou plays a crucial role as Li Nuo, a sophisticated, independent young woman from the city, representing her urban, modern-day ideals. She is Bo Dan's confident yet humble love interest back in the city, providing a touch of urban contrast to the rustic appeal of the rural lifestyle presented in the film.

Throughout the film, 100 Days masterfully explores the conflicting perspectives faced by Bo Dan. It then progresses to uncovering emotions, values, and the importance of connecting with one’s roots and the simplicity of life.

Henry Chan, having directed and worked on several television and film projects in Hollywood, brings a distinctly professional polish to this Taiwanese rom-com. His direction flawlessly showcases the beauty of Taiwan’s agrarian culture and the country's magnificent landscape. Visually, the film is stunning with panoramic views of the lush countryside, misty mountains, and serene seascapes, giving viewers an immersive sensory experience.

The filmmakers have also adopted the use of magical realism within the story, proposing a notion that the spiritual world can influence the direction of our lives. The spiritual aspect in no way overpowers the storyline but rather fits smoothly, adding a uniquely Asian touch to the narrative.

On a broader level, 100 Days is not only a romantic drama but also a commentary on the clash of cultures and the amalgamation of traditional values with modern ideologies. The screenplay beautifully portrays the journey of a man rediscovering his purpose and roots, all while navigating the complexities of love and family commitments.

One of the film's major strengths lies in its rich, relatable characters and the performances of the ensemble cast. The dynamic between Bo Dan and Yo-Yo is especially compelling, as they find themselves entangled in a web of feelings, family, and long-held traditions. Meanwhile, Bo Dan's relationship dynamics with Li Nuo bring an interesting contemporary spin to the narrative.

The dialogue is handled with care, bringing moments of humor, poignancy, and philosophical insights. It features a beautiful music score, creating the perfect ambiance for this emotionally enriching film.

In conclusion, 100 Days is a beautifully crafted film that warmly nurtures its narrative before presenting it to viewers. This low-key yet engaging film will draw in anyone with a penchant for touching, human stories. It offers a pleasant blend of romance, drama, and comedy, with widely appealing performances and a compelling narrative. It is a film that radiates warmth and celebrates the beauty of coming back home.