Snow Flower and the Secret Fan

Snow Flower and the Secret Fan is a heart-stirring drama film from 2011 directed by Wayne Wang, starring Bingbing Li, Jun Ji-hyun, and Vivian Wu. The director, internationally acclaimed for his dynamic story-telling ability, beautifully brings to life Lisa See's bestselling novel of the same name, infusing it with layered emotions and cultural intricacies.

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of 19th Century and present-day China, this moving film intertwines the lives of two pairs of women as it masterfully explores the enduring bond of friendship. Ministry of Security official Nina (Bingbing Li) and wealthy businesswoman Sophia (Jun Ji-hyun) are two best friends living in modern Shanghai, while Snow Flower (also played by Bingbing Li) and Lily (Gianna Jun), bound together and communicate through an elaborate secret code of communicating known as "nu shu". The film delicately communicates the complexities of their relationships and the weight of their societal expectations throughout their lives.

The narrative switches back and forth between the two periods, creating an engaging juxtaposition between the old and the new China, while continuously highlighting the universal nature of human emotions and relationships. Nina and Sophia are modern women who face the complexities of contemporary relationships, life choices, and gender norms, while Lily and Snow Flower are dealing with the social norms and patriarchal constraints of 19th Century China. The curious blend of these timelines imparts the film with a deep emotional resonance and rich cultural overview.

Bingbing Li delivers a robust performance as both Nina and Snow Flower, playing each role with a sense of authenticity, grace, and complexity. Her depiction of two very different women from different times, struggling with their individual lives while cherishing a deep friendship at their core, is both touching and compelling. Jun Ji-hyun also puts forth a praiseworthy performance as Sophia and Lily, navigating through her roles with an excellent range of emotions and sensitivity.

The visual metaphors in the movie are realistic and captivating, contributing to the progression of the storyline. The cinematography is remarkable, portraying the scenic beauty of rural 19th Century China juxtaposed with the bustling, modern cityscape of Shanghai. Meanwhile, the production design is meticulous in its recreation of the historical period, and the aesthetics are amplified by the exquisite traditional costumes, which add to the overall atmosphere and visual appeal of the film.

The soundtrack by Rachel Portman is evocative, invoking the right emotions at the right moments, subtly elevating the narrative. The score, combined with the impactful sound editing, complements the film's mood and helps the audience better connect with the characters' emotions.

Snow Flower and the Secret Fan is a powerfully emotive film about women and their enduring friendships. Despite being in different time periods, it explores how they cope with societal norms, personal struggles, their deepest secrets and how they find solace in each other's company. It delves into the concept of 'Laotong,' a unique practice of sworn sisterhood, highlighting the beauty of this bond.

In addition to its main narrative, the film also touches various themes like the socio-cultural transformation of China, the power of women's resilience, and the concept of sisterhood. It portrays the nuances of Chinese culture and sheds light on women's experiences under oppressive societal norms, providing a beautiful narrative that gives voice to their struggles and sacrifices. However, it is vital to note that it is not just a commentary on the past but also a mirror to the present, as it draws parallels between two different eras and shows the timelessness of friendship and love.

Snow Flower and the Secret Fan, therefore, offers a profound cinematic experience that transcends geographical and temporal boundaries. It beautifully encapsulates the essence of a deep-rooted friendship within a rich cultural milieu. A melodramatic narrative, seasoned performances, and an aesthetic portrayal of a bygone era coupled with modern times make the movie an engaging and emotionally resonant watch. It is an evocative piece that will strike a chord with viewers, illustrating a journey of friendship, love, sacrifice, and cultural norms foundation to the strength of women.