Watch Dearest
- 2014
- 2 hr 10 min
-
7.6 (2,670)
Dearest is a Chinese movie from 2014 that tells the story of a divorced couple searching for their missing son. The movie is directed by Peter Chan, a renowned Hong Kong filmmaker, and features a stellar cast, including Wei Zhao, Bo Huang, and Dawei Tong. The movie opens with the divorced couple, Tian Wenjun (played by Bo Huang) and Lu Xiaojuan (played by Wei Zhao), attending a hearing for their court case over custody of their son Pengpeng. During the hearing, it is revealed that Pengpeng has gone missing, possibly abducted, and the parents are devastated. The story then follows their desperate search for Pengpeng, who they discover may have been taken by human traffickers.
Dearest is a poignant tale that highlights the emotional trauma that families go through when a child is taken away from them. The movie delves deep into the different ways in which the loss of a child impacts the parents and those around them. The film is masterfully shot and features beautiful cinematography that captures both the natural beauty of China's countryside and the harsh realities of the city's underbelly.
The performances from the cast are another highlight of the movie. Wei Zhao delivers a powerful performance as Lu Xiaojuan, the mother who is struggling to cope with the loss of her son. She conveys a range of emotions - from grief to rage - with ease and authenticity. Bo Huang, playing the father, is equally convincing in his portrayal of a man who is trying to hold it together despite the devastating loss. Dawei Tong, who plays Lu Xiaojuan's new husband, provides subtle comic relief and is the voice of reason throughout the movie.
The movie's direction by Peter Chan is another stand-out aspect of Dearest. Chan has gone beyond just telling a story about the dark world of human trafficking and has instead created a film that shines a light on the complexities of family relationships. The director has done an excellent job of portraying the subtleties of the relationship between the divorced couple and how their shared love for their son drives their search for him.
Dearest is not an easy movie to watch. The movie deals with difficult subject matter, and the filmmakers don't shy away from depicting the harsh realities of human trafficking. The film is at times gut-wrenching, and it's impossible not to feel empathy for the parents as they go through the gamut of emotions. However, despite the difficulty of the subject matter, the movie is ultimately a story about hope in the face of adversity.
In conclusion, Dearest is a powerful movie that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who sees it. The film is a testament to the emotional resilience of parents who will do everything in their power to protect their children, no matter what the cost. With sensitive direction, stunning cinematography, and powerful performances, this movie is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted drama.