Back Home

Back Home is a 2019 Chinese drama film directed by Sun Xiaoying. The film stars acclaimed actress Song Jia as a successful businesswoman in her 30s named Wu Xiaolian, who returns to her hometown after receiving news of her mother’s sudden death. Accompanied by her young daughter, she embarks on a journey of rediscovery, confronting long-buried memories and coming to terms with her past as she navigates the complex web of relationships in her hometown.

The film opens with Wu Xiaolian, a busy and successful entrepreneur, receiving a phone call informing her of her mother’s death. With a heavy heart, she decides to return to her hometown, where she lived until she was 18, and which she has not visited in many years. Accompanied by her young daughter, she arrives at her old family home, where she is greeted by her father, whom she has not seen in years.

Wu Xiaolian’s return to her hometown is fraught with emotion, as she is forced to confront memories of her past that have remained buried for years. She reconnects with friends and family members, but also encounters old rivals and resentments, leading her to reevaluate her relationships and the way she views herself.

As Wu Xiaolian spends more time in her hometown, she begins to unravel the mystery surrounding her mother’s death, which is shrouded in secrecy and unanswered questions. Her investigation takes her to unexpected places and creates new challenges for her, but also brings her closer to uncovering the truth and finding closure.

Back Home is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of family, memory, loss, and reconciliation. Director Sun Xiaoying deftly weaves together multiple narrative strands and character arcs, creating a rich and nuanced portrait of a woman searching for herself in a world that has drastically changed since she left it.

The film features a brilliant performance by Song Jia, who brings depth and complexity to the character of Wu Xiaolian. Throughout the movie, the actress deftly navigates a range of emotions, conveying both the vulnerability and strength of her character, and making her journey towards healing and acceptance all the more poignant.

In addition to its powerful performances, Back Home is also an aesthetically stunning film, with breathtaking shots of the Chinese countryside and beautifully crafted sets and costumes that capture the essence of its characters and the world they inhabit.

Overall, Back Home is a must-see film that will leave viewers deeply moved and enlightened about the complexities of family relationships, the power of memory, and the human capacity for healing and growth.