Prepare to be captivated by Edward Yang's masterpiece, 'Yi Yi,' a film that delves into the depths of family, culture, and the human experience. This emotional journey is now available on Criterion 4K UHD Blu-ray, offering a fresh perspective on a timeless story.
'Yi Yi' is a celebration of life's complexities, framed by two significant cultural events: a wedding and a funeral. Through this delicate structure, Yang explores the dualities of existence, capturing the mundane and the catastrophic with equal brilliance. It's a reminder that even the simplest moments can be extraordinary.
At the heart of the film is young Yang-Yang, played by Jonathan Chang. With his camera, he navigates the world, seeking to reveal what others cannot see. His character embodies the film's philosophy—that every story has two sides, and uncovering them leads to new insights and awakenings.
One of the most powerful arcs in 'Yi Yi' belongs to NJ, portrayed by Wu Nien-jen. He confronts his past as he reconnects with his ex-lover, Sherry (Ke Su-yun). In a moving scene, NJ acknowledges his feelings and frees himself from past pains. Although Sherry leaves him, her actions are not vengeful, but rather a reminder that the past cannot be changed, and growth lies in the present.
The cycle of enlightenment continues with the death of NJ's mother-in-law, the family's beloved matriarch. Her passing affects everyone, especially NJ's daughter, Ting-Ting (Kelly Lee). Ting-Ting's search for inner peace is symbolized by a flower, which, after a divine encounter with her grandmother, regains life. This moment is a testament to the film's exploration of the spiritual and the transcendent.
In terms of technical aspects, the 4K restoration of 'Yi Yi' offers subtle improvements over the 2011 release. The backgrounds are sharper, enhancing the film's many deep-focus compositions. The vibrant reds and greens pop, adding to the visual appeal. The audio track remains consistent with the 2011 release, providing a balanced mix of dialogue, ambient noise, and music.
The Criterion Collection has included all the extras from the 2011 release, such as a commentary with Edward Yang and critic Tony Rayns. Their discussion offers a fascinating insight into the film's production and Yang's personal anecdotes. Additionally, Rayns provides an overview of the New Taiwan Cinema Movement, its aesthetics, and themes. A theatrical trailer and an essay by Kent Jones further enrich the viewing experience, delving into Yang's meticulous crafting of the film's characters and drama within the context of Taipei's social landscape.
'Yi Yi' is a quiet yet profound masterpiece, and its 4K digital restoration reflects this beauty. With a runtime of 173 minutes, it's a film that lingers long after the credits roll.
Score:
Cast: Wu Nien-jen, Elaine Jin, Issey Ogata, Kelly Lee, Jonathan Chang, Chen Hsi-sheng, Ke Su-yun
Director: Edward Yang
Screenwriter: Edward Yang
Distributor: The Criterion Collection
Running Time: 173 min
Rating: NR
Year: 2000
Release Date: January 13, 2026
Buy: Video (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FWFVWLQJ/ref=nosim/?tag=slantmagazine-20)
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