But Always

But Always is a 2014 Chinese romantic drama directed by Snow Zou and stars famous actors such as Nicholas Tse, Yuanyuan Gao and Haitao Du. This beautifully shot film explores the themes of love, loss, nostalgia and the complications of life against the breathtaking backdrop of New York City and Beijing.

In this beautiful romantic drama, the principal characters, Anran (Gao Yuanyuan) and Yongyuan (Nicholas Tse), are intertwined in an emotional journey that dives straight into the depths of love, longing, and sacrifice. It's a heartwarming exploration of romance and commitment that will have you on the edge of your seat, as they attempt to navigate the complexities of their deeply engraved emotions, the passage of time, and the geographical distance between them.

Set in both Beijing and New York, the film starts in the 1970s just as China begins its great Cultural Revolution. The narrative steps into the meat of the story as children. Anran, the daughter of a hospital director, and Yongyuan, an orphan, become best friends and neighbours. Tragically, Yongyuan's adoptive parents die, and Anran's family is forced to relocate, leading to Yongyuan's adoption by a family in America. This sets our heroes on different paths across continents, where their journey spanning decades begins.

Nicholas Tse, widely known for his roles in films such as The Promise and Time and Tide, delivers a strong and touching performance as Yongyuan. His complex character allows Tse to display a broad range of emotions that brings depth and believability to the role. Gao Yuanyuan, a recognised figure in the Chinese film industry, also brings an air of poise and grace to the character of Anran, providing an emotional center to the spiraling events of the plot.

However, But Always isn't just about the love story. The narrative takes the audience on a moving journey through time, capturing the changes in society and life in both China and America during this period.

The film does a remarkable job at portraying these two vastly different cultures. It offers a vivid contrast between Eastern and Western lifestyles, values, and social norms, making for an enriching viewing experience. The well-crafted social backdrop adds a layer of depth to the story, enhancing the personal trials and tribulations faced by Anran and Yongyuan.

Moreover, the portrayal of 1980's New York city and 1970's Beijing is a visual treat. The cinematography beautifully captures the essence and vibe of both the cities. From Beijing's traditional Hutongs to the bustling cityscape of New York, the film effortlessly transports the viewer through time and space.

Director Snow Zou has uncovered a unique angle on romance in But Always. Zou's storytelling infuses life into each scene, transitioning seamlessly between the past and present and between the vibrant cities of Beijing and New York. The film's nonlinear storytelling pattern gives it an interesting twist from the usual romantic dramas, keeping viewers engaged and on their toes.

The supporting cast, including Haitao Du, also adds depth to the narrative. Their performances give viewers a glimpse of the broader context in which Anran and Yongyuan's story unfolds. The characters are neatly woven into the plot, and each one contributes to the overall emotional tone of the film, making it a well-rounded cinematic journey.

Though a drama at its core, But Always also boasts of comic moments, intense scenes, and heart-rending sequences that make for an entertaining watch. It’s a film that transcends time and space while being deeply rooted in its emotional struggles making it a wholesome journey into the world of love, loss, and longing.

In conclusion, But Always is an emotional and visually stunning film that serves as both a love story and a time capsule, capturing an important era in Chinese and American history. It's a testament to the power of love, the agony of loss, and the allure of nostalgia. With its excellent performances, deft direction, and impressive cinematography, But Always is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys deeply moving romantic dramas.