Days We Stared at the Sun

Days We Stared at the Sun is a Taiwanese television series that aired in 2010 on the PTS television network. It chronicles Taiwan's transition from the repressive martial law period to a thriving democracy and delves into the challenges faced by urban youth growing up amidst socio-political transition. The show skillfully combines elements of drama and socio-political commentary while cultivating an emotional connection to the characters and their struggles.

The series begins by introducing us to the lead characters, teenagers in the midst of discovering their place in the world. High school is winding down, and the daunting real world looms, intensified by the ever-changing socio-political atmosphere that reverberates into family dynamics and frienships.

The central protagonists are Xiao Qing and Xia Chuan, high school seniors entangled in a complex web of teen angst, societal pressures, and coming-of-age anxieties. They grapple with routine challenges typical of any teenager around the globe, like friendship, love, family, and the stress of looming adulthood. However, the era set backdrop sharply intensifies their story, making their situation unique and deeply embedded in the cultural context of Taiwan.

Xiao Qing is an aggressive, hot-headed teenager with a rebellious streak. Struggling with a difficult relationship with her mother, she harnesses a soft spot for her ailing grandmother, who lived through the eras of Japanese Rule and Kuomintang authoritarian era, carrying the burden of those traumas into her later years. On the other hand, Xia Chuan is a soft-spoken, obedient teen who yearns to break free from the rigid path set before him by his ambitious parents. He finds solace in his love for writing, a stark contrast from the career in economics pushing onto him.

What makes "Days We Stared at the Sun" exceptionally distinctive is its integration of Taiwan's turbulent history into the storyline. The show offers viewers a glance at the backstory of a young democracy like none other. It uses the daily lives and struggles of ordinary teenagers to paint the larger symbols of Taiwan’s political history and metamorphosis.

The used setting is the 90s, with a background of political unrest. The democratization of Taiwan, student protests affirming their democratic rights, and the end of martial law all play a crucial role in shaping the narrative. This volatile period of Taiwan's history is seamlessly woven into the lives of Xiao Qing and Xia Chuan, making it not just a backdrop, but a vital player in the storyline.

However, the series doesn't alienate viewers who aren't familiar with Taiwan's specific history. Behind the backdrop of the socio-political environment, the tale narrates timeless, universal themes of individual growth, familial tensions, societal pressures, and the pursuit of dreams. The characters' problems resonate with any teenager and their portrayal helps the audience build empathy and understanding.

The series won't shy away from confronting challenging topics like gang violence, police corruption, and political activism, dealing with these issues with maturity and realism. Simultaneously, the series also extends discussions on cultural memories, generational conflicts, and how history fundamentally shapes an individual and a nation.

The screenplay of the series is skillful enough to ensure that the pace is maintained, and the narrative doesn't waver. Every episode builds masterfully on the preceding one, sustaining suspense and intrigue, and the performances are highly thought-provoking and impactful.

The cinematography serves to visually highlight the contrast between the character's inner world and the frenzied world outside. The use of local language and the realistic portrayal of Taiwanese society give it an authentic feel. The soundtrack effectively adds emotion to the show, and the subtle use of music always adds depth to an already intense scene.

In conclusion, "Days We Stared at the Sun" is a thoughtful, beautifully-crafted show that captivates viewers with its profound depiction of Taiwanese society. It skillfully blends the narrative's personal and political aspects, resulting in a rewarding viewing experience that's both insightful and emotionally resonant. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in exploring dramas rooted deeply in their unique cultural contexts.