Watch Fish and Elephant

Fish and Elephant is a 2001 Chinese film directed by Li Yu, a notable figure in the New Wave Movement of Chinese cinema. The film tells the story of two young women, Qiao (played by Shitou) and Ling (played by Pan Yi), who fall in love and navigate their relationship amidst societal and cultural pressures. The film opens with a scene of Qiao, a young woman from rural China, arriving in Beijing to start her new job at a textile factory. She quickly befriends Ling, a Beijing native and accomplished modern dancer. The two women are drawn to each other and begin to explore their feelings through subtle interactions, such as a shared glance or a touch of the hand.

Qiao and Ling's blossoming romance is complicated by their differing backgrounds and the societal pressure to conform to traditional gender norms. Qiao faces discrimination as a rural woman in the big city and is frequently ridiculed by Ling's friends for being uncouth. Ling, on the other hand, is expected to marry a man and raise a family, despite her own desires.

The tension between their love for each other and the pressures from society and culture eventually comes to a head when Ling's mother discovers their relationship. In a heartbreaking scene, Ling's mother pleads with Qiao to leave her daughter and conform to societal expectations. Qiao reluctantly agrees, but their separation only serves to strengthen their commitment to each other.

The film explores the themes of love, identity, and societal expectations through a nuanced portrayal of the two women's lives. Li Yu's direction is characterized by a naturalistic style, utilizing long takes and handheld cameras to create an intimate portrayal of the characters and their world. The film is also notable for its frank depiction of queer relationships in Chinese cinema, which, at the time of its release, were largely taboo.

The central performances from Shitou and Pan Yi are also noteworthy, with both actresses bringing a subtle vulnerability and nuance to their roles. Shitou's portrayal of Qiao is particularly noteworthy, as she deftly balances the character's rural background with her growing self-assurance and love for Ling.

Overall, Fish and Elephant is a poignant and intimate portrayal of love between two women in a society that expects conformity. With its naturalistic style, the film immerses the viewer in the lives of its characters, creating a powerful and emotional experience.