Keep Cool

Keep Cool is an engaging 1997 Chinese film that is both amusing and thought-provoking, showcasing aspectual — and at times — farcical insights into the modern metropolis lifestyle. The film is directed by acclaimed Chinese director Yimou Zhang and stars Wen Jiang, Baotian Li, and Ying Qu. This romantic comedy revolves around the trials and tribulations of urban life in Bejing, infused with elements of culturally-inclined suspense and dramatic experiences.

Wen Jiang plays the impassioned, hot-headed street vendor Xiao Shuai, who sells books on the sidewalks of Beijing amidst towering skyscrapers and chaotic city life. He nurtures a deep fascination for the white-collar, independent, and career-driven woman, An Hong (played by the effervescent Ying Qu) . Xiao Shuai's love interest takes on a more desperate note when he gets entangled in an unfortunate incident leading up to a hilarious cascade of events.

Xiao Shuai's life takes a downturn when he discovers An Hong is in a relationship with the snobbish, elitist intellectual Lao Zhang. Infused with jealousy and unrequited love, Xiao Shuai recklessly challenges Lao Zhang to a fight. The debacle that follows transpires into a series of comical yet distressing escapades as Xiao Shuai finds himself being pursued by Lao Zhang's surprisingly vengeful brother, Lao Er, who is a high-ranking police officer.

As Xiao Shuai navigates his way through this series of comic misadventures, the audience experiences his altercations with the obstinate law enforcement, corrupt bureaucracy, and ironically, scuffles with the local mafia, all while trying to win over the love of his life, An Hong.

Baotian Li plays the character of Uncle Liu, a friendly, old, and wise bookseller who becomes an unlikely ally to Xiao Shuai. Uncle Liu provides timely counsel and assistance, helping Xiao Shuai navigate through the complications resulting from his temerity and desperation. The camaraderie between Xiao Shuai and Uncle Liu adds an additional layer of humor and compassion to the narrative, leaving audiences endeared.

Amidst all its humor, Keep Cool undertones the transformation of Beijing into a bustling metropolis with its satirical commentary on modern urban living. It presents a vivid take on the stark contrasts in contemporary Chinese society, illustrated against the backdrop of cultural shift, changing values, and industrialization.

The film is not your typical rom-com and stands out for its unique cinematography. The movie often abruptly switches between first-person point-of-view shots and third-person perspectives. The innovative use of long takes and freeze-frames coupled with vigorous camera movement gives the film a distinctive aesthetic appeal. Enhancing this is the intriguing use of color that subtly portrays the mood and emotions of the characters.

The movie also exhibits the influence of Western cinema and pop culture on Beijing's urban life and youth culture. The film employs elements of slapstick comedy and laugh-out-loud scenes to lighten its profound message and observations.

Keep Cool remarkably showcases director Yimou Zhang’s daring creativity and uncompromising vision to portray Beijing's reality with both humor and melancholy. It also lays bare the societal pressures and the struggles faced by the marginalized in a rapidly modernizing city.

The film is popular for its sharp, biting wit, and emotionally compelling narrative that is supported by extraordinary performances. Wen Jiang, with his persuasive acting skills, succeeds in expertly portraying the desperation, confusion, and subtle humor inherent in Xiao Shuai. Both Ying Qu and Baotian Li deliver equally compelling performances, adding depth and complexity to their characters.

In its entirety, Keep Cool mesmerizes with its unexpected comic turn of events, profound cultural commentary, and subtle underpinning of urban romantic affairs. The film blends genre elements in a way that is engaging, entertaining, and at the same time, thought-provoking.

"Keep Cool" does not shy away from presenting the intriguing shades of contemporary Beijing and emerges as a must-see vintage classic for viewers of Chinese cinema and global film enthusiasts. It is a film that will guarantee relentless laughs, rare insights, and some soul-searching along the way.