
In Our Time
Where to Watch In Our Time

In Our Time is a compelling Taiwanese movie released in 1982. The movie created an immense wave of resonance, as it showcased an array of societal issues through tales loosely connected in a multistoried narrative format. The movie stars acclaimed actors Emily Y. Chang, Sylvia Chang, and Chi Chen, who skillfully bring the distinctive stories to life with their exceptional performances.
This cinematic masterpiece is comprised of four short films, each directed by a different individual, making the movie a splendid collaboration. Each section explores the unique struggles, experiences, and triumphs of individuals at different stages of their lives. The movie beautifully represents the human spirit's resilience and strength, depicted through its deep narrative and compelling characters.
The first piece, “Little Dragon Head,” revolves around the life of a young boy during the 1950s. Directed by Tao Te-Chen, it brilliantly showcases the complex realities of a child's world, beautifully capturing the boy's emotional journey with his peers, family, and the mysterious world around him. This segment powerfully portrays the innocence and curiosity of childhood, crafting a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
The second film, “Expectations,” centers around a teenage girl who struggles with the insecurities and emotions characteristic of her age. Directed by Edward Yang, this heart-touching story unravels her journey into womanhood amid traditional societal norms, brilliantly capturing the nuances of adolescence. Yang’s masterful exploration of familial pressures, societal expectations, and an adolescent's longing for love and acceptance makes for a compelling watch.
The third segment, “Leapfrog,” is a spirited tale of a young man in his twenties, directed by Ko I-Chen. It gives an in-depth view into the challenges and self-realizations that come with adulthood. This piece symbolizes the bittersweet burden of dreams and aspirations, resonating deeply with young adults everywhere.
Finally, the fourth movie “Say Your Name,” directed by Yi Chang, brings a raw portrayal of the married life of a middle-aged couple, showcasing the emotional intricacies of love, family, and marriage. The narrative beautifully explores the trials and tribulations that unfold in a normal domestic life, offering an elaborate portrait of enduring love, unfulfilled dreams, and the silent compromises made in a relationship.
Throughout In Our Time, the performances of Emily Y. Chang, Sylvia Chang, and Chi Chen are undeniably powerful. The ensemble cast’s superlative acting augments the movie's emotional depth, making it a heart-tugging experience. Each actor ingeniously brings out the profound emotions of their character, stirring empathy within viewers.
The movie does not shy away from exploring profound themes. It takes on significant societal and personal issues, never sugar-coating but instead remaining realistic in addressing these issues. With its bold commentary on Taiwan's societal norms along with globalization's influence on traditional Asian values, In Our Time stands out for not just its storytelling but also its societal relevance.
The cinematography of the movie is exceptional, with each film beautifully shot, capturing the essence of Taiwan. The soundtracks composed for the different films complement the stories well, enhancing the emotional depth and overall viewing experience. The direction, screenplay, and collage of stories in this film makes it a landmark movie in Taiwanese cinema.
Not merely a film, In Our Time is a captivating journey through life stages, enthralling the audience with its uniquely poignant yet subtly handled narratives. Its powerful themes, visual storytelling, and emotionally charged performances give viewers a thought-provoking cinematic experience.
In essence, In Our Time is a reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the universal experiences that connect us all. This movie is definitely a must-watch for those in search of thought-provoking narratives that offer a deep exploration of life and the human psyche.
In Our Time is a Drama movie released in 1982. It has a runtime of 110 Critics and viewers have rated it moderate reviews, with an IMDb score of 7.0..
