So Young 2: Never Gone

So Young 2: Never Gone is a 2016 Chinese romantic drama film based on the popular novel of the same name, written by Xin Yi Wu. Directed by Zhou Tuo Ru, this film features a stellar cast including Kris Wu, Liu Yifei, and Kim Scar. Notably, the screenplay for the film was penned by the author of the novel herself, making it a faithful representation of the original story.

Set primarily in a university campus, the film captures the tenderness and tumult that comes with young love. The narrative explores the complex and often perplexing feelings of burgeoning adulthood, the pains of youthful dreams, and the bittersweet experience that comes with first love. Lead characters Kris Wu and Liu Yifei deliver performances that perfectly embody the raw spirit of their respective roles and articulate the emotionality and sentimentality of youthful romance.

Kris Wu, an actor-singer of international repute, is cast in the role of Cheng Zheng, a young man hailing from a wealthy family. He is exuberant, headstrong but endearingly sincere in his actions and emotions. Despite his occasional childishness and recklessness, viewers are likely to find his character relatable and authentic.

Starring opposite Kris Wu is Liu Yifei, an actress recognized for her timeless charm and multifaceted acting skills. She essays the role of Su Yunjin, a private, hardworking, and resilient girl from a modest background. Her quiet strength and sincerity provide the perfect foil to Cheng Zheng’s lively impulsiveness.

As the story unfolds, the duo’s initial encounters are less than amicable, setting the stage for a journey that moves from antipathy to attraction, and then to an intense, passionate love. Their contrasting personalities, social backgrounds, and life aspirations fuel the conflict, drama, and the eventual resolution in their relationship.

Kim Scar delivers a commendable performance in a significant supporting role, rounding up the principal cast. The film also features other young actors who add depth and color to the narrative, their characters vividly portraying the varying aspects of youth and its challenges.

Apart from stellar performances, viewers can expect to be wowed by the aesthetic appeal of the film. It captures the nostalgic beauty of a university setting, including quaint buildings, peaceful surroundings, and lively dorm life. This, combined with keenly chosen locations beyond the campus, adds a memorable visual element to the story. The carefully chosen music, ranging from light and playful to solemn and emotional, further enhances the narrative’s overall appeal.

So Young 2: Never Gone is not just a love story; it is an exploration of the trials and tribulations of youth. It doesn’t shy away from delving into themes of friendship, ambition, familial bonds, social disparity, and personal growth. The shifting dynamics between the characters and their struggles to align their dreams with reality form the heart of the narrative, making it a compelling watch.

The film is a roller-coaster of emotions, making you laugh, cry, and even introspect at times. While the motifs of young love and coming-of-age are common, the nuanced treatment of these elements in 'So Young 2: Never Gone' sets it apart. A layered script, anchored by robust performances, will surely leave the audience invested in the lives and fates of the central characters.

In conclusion, So Young 2: Never Gone is a heart-wrenching depiction of first love set against the backdrop of college life, boasting emotional performances and arresting visuals. It’s a perfect blend of romance, heartbreak, and nostalgia that captures the essence of youth perfectly, making it a must-watch for fans of the romantic drama genre.