Watch Love on a Diet
- 2001
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6.5 (2,048)
Love on a Diet is a 2001 romantic-comedy film from Hong Kong, directed by Johnnie To and starring Andy Lau, Sammi Cheng, and Rikiya Kurokawa. The film tells the story of a love triangle between two overweight people, played by Cheng and Lau, and a Japanese sumo wrestler, played by Kurokawa. The film opens with Cheng's character, Mini Mo, a food-loving woman who is constantly turning to food for comfort. Mini is overweight and ashamed of her appearance, but her best friend convinces her to enter a weight loss competition to win a trip to Japan. The incentive is enough to get Mini to start a diet and exercise routine, and she soon meets Ah Wai, played by Lau, at the weight loss center.
Ah Wai is a former swimming champion who has gained weight and lost his confidence. He sees Mini as an inspiration and together they embark on a journey to lose weight and find love. However, their progress is interrupted when Kurokawa's character, Akira, enters the picture.
Akira is a famous sumo wrestler who is also participating in the weight loss competition. He is immediately drawn to Mini and begins to pursue her, further complicating the love triangle. As the competition progresses, Mini and Ah Wai struggle to resist their growing feelings for each other and confront their insecurities.
The film's comedic moments stem from the characters' struggles with their weight and self-esteem. The weight loss center provides a humorous setting, complete with wacky exercise equipment and ironic motivational slogans. The film also pokes fun at the unrealistic expectations of the weight loss industry and the pressures to conform to societal ideals of beauty.
However, Love on a Diet also has serious moments that delve into deeper issues of self-acceptance and body positivity. Mini's journey is one of self-discovery as she learns to love herself for who she is, regardless of her size. Ah Wai's journey is one of redemption as he finds his confidence and courage through his relationship with Mini.
The film's visuals are bright and colorful, with a cinematography that enhances the comedic and romantic elements of the story. The love triangle is set against the backdrop of Japan, adding a touch of exoticism and cultural diversity to the film.
Overall, Love on a Diet is a charming romantic-comedy that celebrates self-love and acceptance, while also providing plenty of laughs along the way. The performances of the three leads are outstanding, with Lau and Cheng displaying undeniable chemistry and Kurokawa adding to the film's charm with his endearing portrayal of a sumo wrestler in love. The film's uplifting message and relatable themes make it a must-watch for anyone who has ever struggled to love themselves.