Written (with Chang Yao-sheng) and directed by Chung Mong-hong

Starring Chen Yi-wen, Samantha Ko, Wu Chien-ho, and Liu Kuan-ting

Released in theaters (Taiwan) Nov. 1, 2019

Currently streaming on Netflix

I haven’t watched many Taiwanese movies, but the two I remember (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and Lust, Caution) were very good. A Sun, which I watched this weekend, was very good too.

It’s the story of a Taiwanese family and the competition in that family between two sons. One, the golden boy. The other, the troubled and troublesome child. (Think: Ordinary People, 1981, or Waves.) It is also a story about Taiwanese culture in the contemporary world.

It has, like all the best films, both width and depth. It provides snapshots of a Taiwanese culture that I didn’t know. And it takes the viewer on a journey into the dark and dangerous parts of family loyalty and love.

A Sun will give you plenty to think about days or weeks after seeing it. On top of that, it has a fantastic ensemble cast, great photography (lots of lightness and darkness), and a good pace.

Critical Reception 

* “As wrenching and resonant a cinematic experience as can be found in any country this year…” (Peter Debruge, Variety)

* “A Sun radiates with emotional power, telling an intimate story while avoiding all the traps that could have sunk it into cheap melodrama.” (Allen Almachar, The MacGuffin)

* “An engrossing stunner.” (Deborah Young, Hollywood Reporter)

I’m motivated to see more. So I found this list of “40 Great Contemporary Taiwanese Movies.” Lots of intriguing possibilities. Check it out here.