Sen Sen

Sen Sen is a fascinating and heartfelt Taiwanese drama film that explores themes of life, death, family, and human connection. Directed by An Bon, it premiered in 2017 and stars Hee Ching Paw, Zhi-Xuan Wu, and Yi-Wen Yen. The film is a compassionate exploration of mortality and how technology can aid in alleviating loneliness and offering closure, especially when we are facing our end.

The film centers on the character of Sen Sen (played by Zhi-Xuan Wu), a young boy facing complex emotions when he loses his elder brother and only family member to cancer. Instead of dealing with his loss directly, Sen Sen dives deeper into the world of technology to distract himself. He turns his keen curiosity towards online streaming platforms and develops a fascination for the lives of others as presented through the virtual realm.

Sen Sen's virtual explorations bring him into contact with Granny (played by Hee Ching Paw), a terminally ill elderly woman who live-streams her final days to an audience of anonymous users. Granny, whose real name is Liu Yun, is voluntarily attended by the staff of a local hospice. Her decision to share her final journey online is an act both of courage and candor, presenting an unabashed view of what it is to live and die with dignity.

Yi-Wen Yen plays the role of Yo, Granny's nurse, who looks after her while being skeptical about the streaming. The interaction and relationship between Granny, Sen Sen, and Yo unfold in a way that is both poignant and thought-provoking. As Sen Sen finds comfort in his virtual connection with Granny, viewers are invited to contemplate both the human instinct for connection, regardless of the variation in ages and genders, and also the role that technology plays in modern society – building bridges of communication where traditionally there might be none.

The film's narrative gracefully brings forward the contrasting timelines of Sen Sen, who is on the precipice of life at a young age, and Granny, coming towards its end. This polarity showcases the film's central theme: the lifespan of human existence. It showcases the lessons that death can teach us about life and how those lessons can sometimes only make sense in the face of imminent endings.

"Hee Ching Paw's performance as Granny is the heart of the film, perfectly imbuing the character with a dignity and grace that is inspiring and evocative. Zhi-Xuan Wu, despite his young age, also delivers an impressive portrayal of Sen Sen's struggle with loss and his subsequent emotional maturity, adding a distinct depth to his character. Yi-Wen Yen's role as Yo offers a nuanced portrayal of a modern professional stuck between her duty and her personal judgment.

The overall cinematography of the film is commendable, strategically highlighting the contrast between the bustling cityscapes and the isolated confinement of the streaming room. Raw and unfiltered, the filming style adds fundamental depth to the movie's moods, creating a balance between the warmth of human connection and the raw, often harsh reality of life's finitude.

All in all, Sen Sen offers a poignant narrative that dissect the human emotions surrounding illness, mortality, and loneliness. Its content might appear grim initially, but the film is far from a somber tale. Instead, it employs empathy, warmth, and gentle humor to explore the intersection of life, death, and technology. This movie can be a profound exploration for those grappling with similar issues themselves or in their family units, or for those simply intrigued by the premise. Sen Sen is a departure from traditional drama, presenting a poignant film that triggers reflection and introspection. It appeals not just to the mind, but also the heart, leaving an indelible impression on viewers who appreciate depth and substance in cinema.

In conclusion, Sen Sen is a compelling piece of Taiwanese cinema that handles the intricate themes of life, death, and connection with grace and sensitivity. It's a touching exploration of human existences and the bonds we share, told through an unusually powerful lens of online streaming and bonding over shared experiences. The remarkable performances, combined with the adept narrative and cinematography, make Sen Sen a must-watch film that leaves viewers with much contemplation about life's inevitable journey.