Go Away Mr. Tumor

Go Away Mr. Tumor is a 2015 Chinese rom-com/comedy-drama film directed by Han Yan and stars Baihe Bai, Daniel Wu, and Zi-Xuan Zhang in pivotal roles. The movie is a heartwarming exploration of love and life that balances equal parts of comedy and drama.

The film starts with Baihe Bai stepping into the spotlight as Xiong Dun. Xiong Dun has nothing but the usual expectations from life - a good job, hearty friendships, and a romantic relationship. She leads a sparkling life filled with her goofy yet charming repartee aimed at life, work, friends, and the world in general. However, Xiong's bubble is burst in an unfortunate and unexpected manner when she's diagnosed with a malignant tumor on her birthday.

Dealing with a life-threatening disease as complex and severe as cancer often signifies a complete paradigm shift in one's life's goals. Xiong Dun comes face-to-face with her mortality. The optimistic quirky girl is now expected to descend into the brooding gloom that illness brings along. However, that's where Go Away Mr. Tumor sets itself apart from other stereotypical narratives of life and disease.

Xiongger, as she is fondly called, chooses to face her problem head-on. From this point forward, the story begins to focus on dwelling on the present and living every moment to its full potential instead of lamenting the inevitable end. Which is why her imagination plays out in vivid comic-strip style thoughts, giving the movie a unique and appealing aesthetic, and the viewers, an insight into Xiong's worldview and thoughts.

Daniel Wu plays Doctor Liang, Xiong's oncologist, who becomes an integral part of her journey. Liang, initially cold and distant, is soon taken in by Xiong Dun's spirit. He embodies the strong, quiet force that supports Xiong, thus becoming her pillar of strength as she continues to fight her battle with cancer. The character dynamics between Xiong and Liang are a delight to watch. Their shared scenes are emotive, full of warmth and endearingly valid emotional moments that leave a strong impression.

Zi-Xuan Zhang, on the other hand, plays Lili, Xiong’s best friend, confidante, and support system. Zhang embodies this role with a touching dedication that makes Lili an integral part of the narrative. Lili’s presence makes us appreciate the value and strength that friendship can extend in the face of an uphill struggle.

It is important to note that Go Away Mr. Tumor is not your usual frivolous comedy. It derives its humour from Xiong Dun's interactions with the world, her imagination, and her insurmountable spirit in the face of a mortal illness. At the same time, it treats its gravely serious subject matter with the respect and sensitivity it requires. It's not every day you see a film take the comedy genre into a high stakes field like cancer and manage to infuse lightness, love, and laughter into it so skillfully.

Director Han Yan brings out a heartfelt story built on wit, courage, and positivity. He shuns gloom and despair to take a tone that strikes a balance between light-hearted humour and impending tragedy. Yan’s direction coupled with Zhang Yi's cinematography creates an immersive on-screen experience filled with colourful imaginations.

Aside from the central storyline, Go Away Mr. Tumor also explores the complexities of friendships, love, and the importance of living in the moment. It can make you smile, leave you teary-eyed, but most importantly, it makes you appreciate the unpredictability of life and the spirit to celebrate each day as it comes.

Overall, Go Away Mr. Tumor is a feel-good film that manages to leave you with a warm sense of resilience and optimism even as it navigates the difficult terrains of terminal illnesses. It's a film that takes you on an emotional roller-coaster ride and yet leaves you with the feeling of joy and hope.