Watch Classmates Minus

Classmates Minus is a Taiwanese coming-of-age drama film that was released in 2020. It tells the story of three former high school classmates who reunite after many years for a road trip across Taiwan to attend the wedding of another former classmate. The movie takes place in the present day, and we are first introduced to one of the main characters, Xu Taiyu (played by Jen-Shuo Cheng), who is a married man in his thirties with a child. He receives an invitation to attend the wedding of his former high school classmate, Lin Yen-ting (played by Kuan-Ting Liu) and decides to use the opportunity to reunite with his two other former classmates, Xiaobo (played by Na-Dou Lin) and Brother Bing (played by Yanxi Chen), whom he has not seen in over a decade.

The movie explores the complex relationships between the four former classmates and the challenges they have faced since graduation. We learn that Xu Taiyu has experienced major setbacks in his career, which have strained his relationships with his wife and child. Lin Yen-ting, on the other hand, seems to be living a successful life, but she is hiding a dark secret from her past. Xiaobo is dealing with the shame and rejection he has faced since coming out as gay, and Brother Bing, who used to be the class clown, seems to have lost his sense of humor and direction in life.

As the four classmates embark on their road trip, they are forced to confront their pasts and come to terms with the choices they have made in their lives. Along the way, they visit various places in Taiwan, including scenic spots, food markets, and karaoke bars. These locations not only add depth to the film but also provide a glimpse into the diverse culture and traditions of Taiwan.

The film's pacing is slow but deliberate, allowing us to develop a deeper understanding of each character's motivations and actions. The performances by the lead actors are outstanding, with each one bringing a different dimension to their respective characters. Jen-Shuo Cheng's portrayal of Xu Taiyu is particularly noteworthy, as he embodies the struggles of a man trying to balance his aspirations with his responsibilities as a husband and father.

While there are some comedic moments in the film, it mainly deals with serious themes, including loneliness, regret, and forgiveness. As the road trip comes to an end, the four classmates are forced to confront their past actions and make amends with each other. The film ends on a hopeful note, suggesting that even after years of separation, it is possible to rebuild relationships and find happiness.

In conclusion, Classmates Minus is a beautifully crafted film that explores the complexities of friendship, love, and life. The movie's unique blend of humor, drama, and nostalgia make it a must-see for anyone interested in coming-of-age stories. The film not only showcases the sights and sounds of Taiwan but also delves into the complexities of human emotions, making it a true cinematic masterpiece.

Classmates Minus is a 2020 comedy with a runtime of 2 hours and 2 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.