Dìdi (弟弟) (2024)

Predictably, just like every other time I’ve watched a film about a first generation Asian American story, I ended up empathizing more with the immigrant parents than the child. Chris felt like a massive brat the entire movie. 

Though as much as I found Chris annoying, I was never truly hated this character. Not only that, the entire movie felt strangely comforting even as it was filled with teenage angst. As I try to interrogate where this incongruity comes from, I find that maybe this was the point. Chris didn’t have to deal with overt trauma and be an adult early. Just normal teenage rebellion and angst, in what is ultimately a safe environment. That’s why it’s comforting. 

Gorgeous use of lighting. Half the time I was just muttering “omg the light”. If you have a window that gets directly sunlight during sunset let me know. I want to get some shots like that.