Thomas’s review published on Letterboxd:
“Yi Yi” is one of the most poetic, sincere, and soul-stirring movies I have ever seen. It´s a three hours long slice of life epic that follows several members of an average Taiwanese family, all of them dealing with different hardships. It´s both a very intimate story and a universal reflection on life, exploring several timeless and relatable themes such as love, family, growing up, dreams, nostalgia, regrets, fear, loneliness, identity, self-discovery, purpose, life, death, and the human condition.
This film is so honest and authentic that it almost feels voyeuristic at times. It stars believable, fleshed-out, and carefully crafted characters, who are brought to life by natural and powerful performances. The little Yang-Yang, the youngest son of the family, is the standout for me. He encapsulates the innocent sincerity of the whole movie.
“Yi Yi” is a calm, melancholic, and contemplative film. It´s heartbreaking and uplifting all at once and highly immersive. I was completely invested in this family and their struggles, which feel so familiar. I love movies that show the wonder, magic, and profoundness of everyday-life and this is one of the best.
Furthermore, the film is meticulously crafted, brilliantly directed, and visually stunning. It features gorgeous cinematography, amazing framing, fantastic editing, great lighting and colors, and overall, outstanding visual storytelling. I especially noticed the brilliant use of reflections. The music is very enchanting, as well.
Few films capture human life as profoundly and authentically as “Yi Yi”. It´s a masterpiece full of heart and wisdom and a modern classic of world cinema everyone should see.
