Thinking of a new year sparks hope for fresh and improved beginnings. There are rarely clear ends to where new beginnings emerge. Instead, there generally seems to be a muddled mess of unforeseen occurrences, despite our best efforts to control outcomes. Hopefully, with age and experience comes wisdom and happiness. You will notice my compulsion to reference the Orient when pondering this first article of the New Year.

Fireworks

Fireworks (1997) is also known as Hana-Bi in Japan. It stars its director and screenwriter, Takeshi Kitano (or “Beat” Takeshi). In many respects, it is a difficult film that juxtaposes a violent policeman’s working reality versus the tranquility and deep reflection that beckons him through his wife’s terminal state. It is unlikely in its beauty, and is very rewarding in its scope. If ever a film might be labelled as underrated, Fireworks would surely fit that bill.

To Live

To Live (1994) is an epic Chinese film directed by Zhang Yimou. The film documents a once prosperous family’s survival through the conflicts of China’s identity struggles during the 1940s through the 1970s. Aside from the decisions that guide their lives, revolution plays an even larger role in their destiny. It chronicles the many new beginnings that they must either welcome or endure.

Until next time, I hope you have a great viewing experience. Comments are welcomed at cinespire@gmail.com.