The Last Women Standing

The Last Women Standing is a powerful, romantic drama set against the backdrop of the bustling cosmopolitan city of Shanghai. This 2015 Chinese movie, directed by Luo Luo, is based on her novel of the same name and centers around the concept of a 'leftover woman'- a derogatory term used in China to define unmarried women above the age of 27. The film stars the renowned actors- Shu Qi, Eddie Peng, and Hong Pan, whose performances breathe life into the poignant narrative.

The Last Women Standing centres around Sheng Ruxi (played by Shu Qi), a successful but unmarried career woman in her late thirties navigating the pressures and expectations of the corporate world and society regarding her marital status. Sheng, the protagonist, leads a fast-paced life in the corporate echelons of a multinational company. Her character represents the archetype of an independent, successful, hardworking, and intelligent woman who is devoid of the so-called 'marital bliss'. A classic embodiment of the growing tribe of 'leftover women' in modern China, Sheng finds herself constantly subjected to implicit and explicit pressures around marriage, much to her chagrin.

However, Sheng's world changes with the entry of Ma Sai (Eddie Peng), a warm, jovial, and caring man who is also her junior at work. Ma Sai introduces a whiff of fresh air in Sheng's otherwise every day routine, sparking off a tender romantic journey that is poignant, vibrant, and full of life, brightening up the hard edges of her life. The romance that blossoms between them throws new insights on relationships and offers the audience a thought-provoking perspective.

Hong Pan portrays the character of Wu Di, a close friend of Sheng's, whose life serves as a contrasting subplot. Wu Di is also an ambitious woman, but unlike Sheng, she succumbs to societal norms, making her character's journey contrastingly different from the protagonist.

The Last Women Standing explores with fidelity, depth, and sensitivity the societal pressures and implications faced by single, successful women, especially in the context of China, grappling with societal norms, family expectations, and professional pressures. Luo Luo's handling of the narrative stands out, harmonizing the saga of self-discovery and resilience with a touch of love and romance, lending an enriching perspective to the film.

Shu Qi delivers a compelling performance as a high-achieving yet aloof woman, striking the right balance between resilience and vulnerability. Her portrayal of Sheng's struggles will resonate with many women around the globe who are incessantly negotiating the societal expectations of marriage. Eddie Peng's portrayal of Ma Sai is a breath of fresh air. He takes an ordinary character and does extraordinary things with it, capturing the heart and imagination of the audience in every sequence. The chemistry between Shu Qi and Eddie Peng is palpable, making the narrative engaging and credible.

The movie also offers a feast to the eyes, with the stunning backdrop of urban Shanghai, beautiful interior shots, and detailed, stylized dressing of the characters. The Last Women Standing is not just a real-world and grounded narrative but also a visually appealing watch.

The Last Women Standing is a gripping romantic drama, with a sharp social commentary subtly woven into its narrative. It gracefully blends romance with the contemporary reality of urban, professional women, making it a memorable movie experience both culturally and emotionally. The performances of the lead cast, coupled with a well-crafted screenplay, make this film a commendable piece of cinematic art.

To sum up, The Last Women Standing is a cultural narrative exploring societal norms and providing a slice-of-life from an urban woman’s perspective in modern China. With an intriguing narrative, exceptional performances, and a visually appealing backdrop, it redefines the romantic drama genre in its unique way and leaves an indelible mark on the viewer's mind. It is a must-watch, especially for viewers who appreciate a mature, sophisticated, and thought-provoking blend of romance and real-world narratives.