A slow, subtle, and tender approach to its rich themes is marred on occasion by slightly mawkish music (not the karaoke though of course–“Guo Mie” is beautiful and effective) and hints of contrivance in the individual dramatic threads (see the second potential divorce). The movie excels most when the women are together, their natural relationship dynamics on full display (see the sisters on the floor, returning revelations in the living room, tension and cockroaches at the funeral home).
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joel watches movies 