Watch Ethan Mao

Ethan Mao is a 2004 drama film directed by Quentin Lee. The story follows Ethan Mao (Jun Hee Lee), a gay teenager who has been estranged from his conservative family for years. When he returns home to retrieve his belongings, he finds his stepmother (Julia Nickson) living in the house with his father (Raymond Ma) and younger half-brother.

In an effort to get his father's attention and win back his love, Ethan kidnaps his family at gunpoint and demands that they give him the respect and acceptance that he craves. But as the night wears on, the tensions between the family members escalate, leading to a tragic and shocking conclusion.

The film is a gritty portrait of a dysfunctional family and the struggles that LGBTQ+ people face in gaining acceptance from their loved ones. Through Ethan's story, the audience is shown the painful consequences of homophobia and the true meaning of family and unconditional love.

Jun Hee Lee delivers a powerful performance as Ethan, portraying both his vulnerability and his fierce determination with equal aplomb. The supporting cast, including Raymond Ma and Julia Nickson, are equally impressive, bringing depth and complexity to their roles.

The film's direction by Quentin Lee is unflinching in its portrayal of the violence and dysfunction at the heart of the family's dynamics. The tension throughout Ethan Mao is palpable, and the film's final moments are truly heart-wrenching.

Ethan Mao is a must-see for anyone looking for a raw and emotionally honest drama that tackles important issues facing the LGBTQ+ community. Its exploration of family, love, acceptance, and the struggles of coming out is both nuanced and empathetic. While it is not an easy film to watch, it is an important one that sheds light on the real-life struggles that many LGBTQ+ people face in their search for acceptance.

The film's message of love and acceptance is one that transcends sexual orientation and speaks to the universal desire for family and belonging. It is a reminder that, no matter our differences, we are all human beings deserving of love and respect.

In conclusion, Ethan Mao is a beautifully crafted drama that has an important message for audiences. Its performances, direction, and writing all combine to make it a standout film that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll.

Ethan Mao is a 2004 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.1 and a MetaScore of 29.