Watch I'm Livin' It

I'm Livin' It is a poignant and socially conscious Hong Kong drama directed by Wong Hing Fan, featuring a stellar cast including Aaron Kwok, Miriam Chin-Wah Yeung, and Zeno Koo. With a narrative that delves into the underbelly of Hong Kong's dazzling city lights, the film sheds light on the lives of those struggling on the margins of society, tackling issues such as homelessness, poverty, and the quest for redemption. Utilizing a blend of gritty realism and empathetic storytelling, I'm Livin' It serves as a mirror to the challenges faced by those who are often overlooked in a rapidly changing urban landscape.

The film revolves around Bowen (played by Aaron Kwok), a former financial analyst who, after a series of unfortunate events, finds himself destitute and living on the streets. Despite his fall from grace, Bowen maintains a semblance of dignity and routine by frequenting a 24-hour fast-food restaurant that has become an unofficial shelter for the homeless. Within the fluorescent glow of this establishment, a makeshift community forms, consisting of individuals each battling their personal demons and societal neglect. Among them is the vivacious and resilient Yazhen, portrayed by Miriam Yeung, who, despite her own precarious situation, brings a sense of warmth and camaraderie to the group.

As the film progresses, the audience witnesses the daily lives of Bowen, Yazhen, and others who frequent the fast-food restaurant. Through their interactions, the film thoughtfully explores the themes of hope, survival, and the human desire for connection. There is an underlying current of irony in the film's title, "I'm Livin' It," juxtaposing the aspirational, glitzy consumerist lifestyle promoted by the fast-food giant McDonald's with the stark reality of the characters' circumstances. This duality is a central motif in the film and serves as a haunting reminder of the disparity between the haves and the have-nots.

Aaron Kwok delivers an enthralling performance as Bowen, capturing the complexity of a man grappling with the loss of his former life, while struggling to find a sense of purpose in his new reality. His nuanced portrayal goes beyond mere victimhood, presenting Bowen as a multifaceted individual with pride, intelligence, and a propensity for leadership within his newfound community. Miriam Chin-Wah Yeung complements Kwok's performance with her depiction of Yazhen, balancing her character's resilience with moments of vulnerability that make her instantly relatable and deeply human.

Zeno Koo's character adds another layer to the narrative, representing the youth affected by socioeconomic hardships and giving voice to the disenfranchised younger generation. His interaction with the older characters offers a cross-generational perspective on the struggles faced by those living on the periphery of society.

The director, Wong Hing Fan, employs an intimate and unflinching directorial approach, allowing the viewer to delve deep into the character's lives without succumbing to melodrama or sensationalism. The cinematography captures the claustrophobic and transient atmosphere of the fast-food restaurant, often serving as a silent observer to the unfolding stories within its walls. Complementing the visuals is a thoughtful soundtrack that underscores the emotional beats of the narrative without feeling manipulative or heavy-handed.

What sets I'm Livin' It apart from other social dramas is its focus on the human element and the interactions that form the core of the makeshift family within the restaurant. The film does not seek to offer simplistic solutions or preach to its audience; rather, it presents the lives of its characters with dignity and authenticity, inviting reflection on the societal structures that allow such hardships to persist.

Themes of resilience and compassion run through the heart of I'm Livin' It, quietly challenging the viewer to consider their own position and responsibility in a world where inequality is rife. It is this call to empathy, combined with powerful performances and sensitive direction, that (I'm Livin' It) transcends its subject matter to deliver a universal message about the enduring strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

'I'm Livin' It' is more than just a movie; it is a window into the lives of those fighting for their next meal, their next opportunity, their next moment of peace. It serves as both a critique of societal failings and an ode to the unyielding determination of individuals who, despite everything, continue to dream, to hope, and to live. Through its poignant narrative and compelling characters, 'I'm Livin' It' leaves an indelible mark on its audience, encouraging a deeper understanding and awareness of the often invisible struggles existing within the shadows of our bustling world.

I'm Livin' It is a 2020 art house & international movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 54 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4.