Watch Lan Yu

Lan Yu is a Chinese romantic drama film released in 2001. The movie is based on an online novel called Beijing Story by Jimmy Ngai. The story revolves around a young architecture student called Lan Yu (played by Liu Ye) who falls in love with an older businessman named Chen Handong (played by Hu Jun). Chen Handong is a successful entrepreneur who is married and has a child. Their passionate and forbidden love affair unfolds in Beijing in the 1980s.

Lan Yu's character is introduced as a naive and innocent young man who comes from a poor family in northern China. In contrast, Chen Handong is a wealthy and sophisticated businessman who comes from a well-connected family. They meet each other at a party where Chen Handong is impressed by Lan Yu's fresh and youthful appearance.

The first half of the movie explores their budding relationship, which is characterized by physical intimacy and an emotional connection. Chen Handong is drawn to Lan Yu's youthful energy and vitality, and he is also going through a mid-life crisis. He feels trapped by his responsibilities as a family man and longs for something more exciting and adventurous.

Lan Yu, on the other hand, is enamored by Chen Handong's status and wealth, and he is also attracted to his charismatic personality. He views Chen Handong as a mentor and a lover, and he is willing to overlook Chen Handong's marital status and occasional bouts of coldness.

As their relationship deepens, they begin to face obstacles and challenges. Chen Handong's wife becomes suspicious and hostile towards Lan Yu, causing him to feel guilty and ashamed. Meanwhile, Lan Yu's friends and family disapprove of his relationship with an older married man, causing him to feel isolated and rejected.

The second half of the movie explores the aftermath of their relationship and the consequences of their actions. Chen Handong falls into a deep depression after being exposed to his wife and his business associates. He becomes distant and detached from Lan Yu, causing him to question the validity and sincerity of their relationship.

Lan Yu, on the other hand, struggles to come to terms with his feelings and his identity. He realizes that his relationship with Chen Handong was not just a phase but a true expression of his sexuality. He struggles to find acceptance and validation in a society that views homosexuality as taboo and shameful.

The movie is a poignant and bittersweet exploration of love, desire, and identity. It portrays the complexities and contradictions of human relationships and raises questions about societal norms and expectations. The chemistry between Liu Ye and Hu Jun is palpable and intense, and their acting performances are nuanced and authentic. The movie also features stunning cinematography and a beautiful soundtrack that captures the nostalgia and melancholy of the era.

Overall, Lan Yu is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates compelling storytelling and well-crafted filmmaking. It is a timeless classic that has resonated with audiences around the world and remains a powerful testament to the power of love and human connection.