Set Off

Set Off is a 2008 Chinese dark comedy film directed by Li Yu and stars Wei Fan, Wenpei Ju, and Hua Liu in key roles. The film revolves around a unique premise that combines elements of everyday struggles, humor, and societal issues, woven into a narrative that resonates with audiences familiar with the hustle and chaotic life in urban China.

The movie opens with the mundane life of Master Lao, portrayed by Wei Fan, an experienced chef specialized in preparing Beijing roast ducks. His culinary skills are well-known in his neighborhood, where he works in a small, unremarkable roast duck restaurant. Master Lao's life is a repetitive cycle of chopping ducks, serving customers, and dealing with the eccentricities of his workmates. His work is his life, and he finds solace in the precision and ritual of his craft.

Wenpei Ju plays Xiao Shuai, a delivery man for the roast duck restaurant that Master Lao works at. Xiao Shuai's life is full of its own challenges; he navigates the bustling streets of the city, encountering all sorts of people and situations, with a sense of urgency to deliver the warm, delectable meals on time. He dreams of a better life and often feels that his work, while vital, goes unappreciated by those around him.

The restaurant's cashier is portrayed by Hua Liu, who gives life to a character struggling with the drudgery and aspirations that come with handling the financial aspects of a small, local business. She continuously deals with the complexities of managing money, appeasing customers, and surviving in the competitive environment of the city’s food industry.

Set in the sprawling metropolis of Beijing, the film is an exploration of the lives of working-class individuals who are the cogs in the machine of a large, impersonal city. These characters, each representative of their own societal archetypes, are skillfully interwoven into a story that reflects on job security, personal aspirations, entrepreneurial zeal, and the basic human need for connection and respect.

As the narrative unfolds, viewers are introduced to an array of supporting characters that either patronize the restaurant or somehow intersect with the lives of our main protagonists. From local residents to business people, each interaction reveals a small piece of the societal jigsaw puzzle that Li Yu places before the audience. Set in a rapidly modernizing country, the film does not shy away from discussing the stark contrast between tradition and advancement.

Director Li Yu carefully uses humor as a vehicle to address heavier themes within the film. The comedic elements do not overshadow the underlying commentary on the harsh realities that urban life can impose on individuals. Instead, the levity allows the audience to bond with the characters, rooting for them as they navigate their lives and struggles.

Woven into the plot is also a subtle critique of the disparities that exist within the different social strata and the sometimes ruthless nature of urban development. The director posits the question of whether the pursuit of progress justifies the displacement and disregard for those who form the backbone of the city's everyday functions.

The cinematography in Set Off captures the pace and pulse of Beijing, with scenes featuring crowded streets, the bustle of markets, and the kitchen's frenzied environment. The visuals complement the storyline, providing a gritty realism that cements the viewer's immersion in the experience.

Moreover, the performances delivered by Wei Fan, Wenpei Ju, and Hua Liu are poignant and relatable. Their characters provide a sense of rootedness amidst the uncertainties of their urban existence. Each actor brings emotional depth to their roles, adeptly conveying the heartaches, joys, and quiet victories of ordinary people.

Set Off is a thoughtful commentary on the human condition within the context of a Chinese megacity. It is a movie that works on multiple levels, seamlessly blending storytelling with a snapshot of socio-economic conditions, while still managing to entertain and provoke reflection. Audiences are treated to an intimate look at the life of ordinary people and are likely to walk away with a new appreciation for the unsung heroes of the urban labyrinth. With its mix of humor and pathos, Set Off is a film that aims to leave a lasting impression on those who journey through its rich narrative landscape.