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It takes a heart of stone to not appreciate this sincere musical drama from Hong Kong. The film follows a single parent who is part of an indie band as she navigates the unexpected return of her estranged rocker father, who left her when she was just a child 20 years ago. It’s a heartwarming and enjoyable tribute to the healing power of music and starting anew. However, I did find some elements of the story to be a bit unrealistic and idealistic in its belief that music alone can magically mend old wounds. In reality, it often takes years of therapy to truly work through deep-seated pain and resentment.
Kay Tse, a popular Cantopop singer, portrays Cat, the lead vocalist of Band Four and a single mother to her young drumming prodigy daughter, Riley (played by Rondi Chan). Having taken care of her own sick mother for many years, Cat’s father, King, shows up at her mother’s funeral. Standing at only five feet tall, with a ponytail, rockstar sunglasses, and a leather jacket, King is played brilliantly by real-life musician Teddy Robin Kwan. Despite his confident demeanor, there is a hint of genuine remorse in King’s actions. He returns to reconcile with Cat and reveals a surprise: a teenage daughter who is Cat’s half-sister. Cat is furious, but King manages to win over Riley with ease, much to her delight.
When you realize that all four members of the family are musically talented and that Cat’s indie band is falling apart, it becomes clear what direction the story is heading. However, director Mo Lai Yan-chi goes overboard by including too many dramatic elements and complex relationships. Despite this, the film still has a genuine sweetness and charm. I couldn’t help but be drawn to its unapologetic romanticism and heartwarming ending, which focuses on finding happiness within the family rather than love or fame. However, as a movie about music with actual musicians, the songs are unmemorable and lackluster.
Source: theguardian.com
