Happy Times

Happy Times is a touching and heartfelt Chinese comic drama released in 2000. Directed by the critically acclaimed filmmaker Zhang Yimou, the story revolved around the ordinary lives of characters embodying resilience, optimism, and determination. The main actors include Benshan Zhao, Lifan Dong, and Jie Dong who did commendable jobs in their roles.

At the center of the story is Benshan Zhao, who plays the character of a hapless middle-aged man, known as Zhao. He's finally ready to settle down, hoping to find love and companionship in his advancing years, and has set his sights on Wu Ying, a middle-aged divorcee portrayed by Lifan Dong. However, Zhao's unsettled financial condition becomes a stumbling block, as Wu Ying believes Zhao to be a wealthy hotelier.

In desperation to maintain the illusion of affluence, Zhao, with the help of his group of eccentric bachelor friends, comes up with an unconventional plan involving a derelict bus. They decide to convert the derelict bus into The Happy Times Hut, a sham hotel where they fool Wu Ying into believing that Zhao is the owner.

While trying to appease to Wu Ying's materialistic nature, Zhao is introduced to Wu Ying's blind stepdaughter Wu, played by Jie Dong. To keep up with his pretense, he agrees to find employment for Wu at his 'hotel'. Unaware of the reality, Wu looks forward to working at the hotel, excited about earning her own income and being self-reliant, leaving Zhao trapped in his own deceitful scheme.

As Zhao further falls into the complications of his web of lies, the audience gets to witness a heart-warming development of affection and understanding between Zhao and the neglected step-daughter, Wu. Director Zhang Yimou beautifully develops this bond of compassion and empathy between the two characters by exploring raw human emotions and the essence of moral responsibility.

The distinct cast skillfully portrays their character's dilemmas and hopes. Benshan Zhao has marvelously portrayed his character with wonderful comic timing and an undercurrent of empathy. Lifan Dong plays the greedy and uncaring Wu Ying with conviction. It is Jie Dong who truly leaves a lasting impression. Despite being visually impaired, her character is full of optimism, displaying courage and joy in the face of trials.

The film shines with vibrant cinematography and remarkable direction. The common streets and homes of the Chinese working class become the essential backdrop of the movie, with Zhang Yimou using it skillfully to set the tone of the narrative. The simplistic setting combined with the raw and authentic acting performances makes it an engaging watch, offering its audience brief comic reliefs in otherwise tense situations.

The movie is an honest depiction of life's realities, emphasizing the theme of unfulfilled dreams and the lengths people are willing to go to maintain an illusion of happiness and success. While the narrative has elements of comedy, it doesn't shy away from touching on deep and emotionally charged themes.

Touching on the socio-economic differences prevalent in Chinese society and blending it with intricate human relationships, this film presents an allegory of life where individuals strive to find happiness amidst painful realities. In the face of shortcomings and hardships, the characters exhibit resolution to persevere, making "Happy Times" an emotional journey as much as a comic one.

Overall, "Happy Times" is a heartwarming, engaging, and a deeply emotive film interlaced with humor and candid commentary on societal differences. It will surely touch the hearts of viewers by portraying the pursuit of happiness in the most unlikely places, thus driving home the message: happiness is a state of mind, often found amidst simplicity and love. It's a shining testament to Zhang Yimou's directing prowess and brilliantly showcases Chinese cinema to a global audience.