conventions
My mum e-mailed me over the weekend to ask if I've seen Calendar Girls. Funny, cos whilst I was watching this film, I immediately thought of my dear, crazy mum, for this is something she might do--you don't know what she's capable of. Well, maybe not go overboard as to pose naked for calendars, otherwise I will bury myself under a rock forever, but the energetic, outspoken spirit of it all is quite similar. Maybe I shall get this DVD for her b-day, as it is not released in TWN.
More on film watching. Besides my desire to throttle the aggressive bitch Zhang Ziyi everytime I see her, I've also been wondering why she tried to expose her bosom in front of Chow Yun-Fat in the near end of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon? Then it reminded me of an article I once read about the movie and its presentation of sexual repression; this undoubtedly was analysed by yet another pervy lit. prof. For in the film, Chow and Michelle kept on reinforcing to themselves the importance of forsaking desires and leading celibate lives, despite their love for each other. (But deep down inside they just want some serious loving?) Then when the little slag came along, someone who is unrestrained by social rules and its expectations (obeying your parents, respecting elders, keeping promises, etc.), or more precisely, someone who is unafraid to challenge these conventions, Chow becomes enchanted by this breath of fresh air, though he doesn't really show it. Thus the scene, 'Here are my breasts, and I know you are looking'. Yet in the wonderful Chinese world, traditions are traditions and rules are rules--only a remorseful Zhang can satisfyingly end the film.