Watch The Postmodern Life of My Aunt

The Postmodern Life of My Aunt is a 2006 Chinese film starring Gaowa Siqin, Chow Yun-Fat, and Wei Zhao. Directed by Ann Hui, the film tells the story of a middle-aged woman named Aunt Li, played brilliantly by Siqin, who lives alone in a small apartment in urban China. Aunt Li is a quirky character who seems to have fallen on hard times. She is divorced, jobless, and has no children or family. Despite these setbacks, Aunt Li manages to maintain a cheerful disposition and a positive outlook on life.

The film portrays Aunt Li's struggle to make ends meet in a rapidly changing China. She is constantly challenged by the social, economic, and political realities of the modern world. She suffers from a variety of health problems, including a heart condition, which she can barely afford to treat. She is forced to rely on the kindness of strangers and her own resourcefulness to survive.

One day, Aunt Li meets a handsome businessman, Chen, played by Chow Yun-Fat. Chen is a wealthy and successful businessman who takes an interest in Aunt Li. He offers to help her out financially and takes her on lavish outings to restaurants, clubs, and shopping malls.

Despite the stark contrast in their lives, Aunt Li and Chen form a deep connection. They share a love for traditional Chinese music, and Chen introduces her to a world of elegance and sophistication that she had never experienced before. However, their relationship is not without its challenges. Aunt Li struggles to accept Chen's lavish gifts and is wary of his true intentions.

The film also touches on issues of class, gender, and aging in modern China. Aunt Li's social standing is a constant source of anxiety for her. She often feels like an outsider, struggling to fit into a society that values youth, beauty, and material success. She is acutely aware of the limitations placed upon her gender and is frustrated by the lack of opportunities available to older women.

The Postmodern Life of My Aunt is a poignant film that sheds light on the often-overlooked struggles of older women in modern China. It is a beautifully shot film that captures the energy and vibrancy of urban living in contemporary China. The performances of Siqin, Chow Yun-Fat, and Wei Zhao are outstanding and bring depth and nuance to their respective roles.

Overall, The Postmodern Life of My Aunt is a masterful meditation on the complexities of life in modern China. It is a film that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider. It is a story of resilience, hope, and the enduring power of human connection.