3 Times

The film interweaves three distinct love stories set in different time periods: a modern-day massage parlor worker, a petty gangster in 1960s Taipei, and a 1911 revolutionary. Despite their disparate circumstances, each story explores themes of longing, fate, and the complexities of human connection across time. The narrative shifts seamlessly between these interwoven tales, highlighting the enduring nature of love and desire.

Hou Hsiao-hsien's '3 Times' was met with critical acclaim, praised for its minimalist aesthetic, emotional depth, and the compelling performances of its lead actors, particularly Shu Qi and Chang Chen. Critics lauded the director's masterful storytelling and his ability to evoke a profound sense of melancholy and yearning.

• Praised for its elegant direction and emotional resonance.

• Shu Qi and Chang Chen deliver nuanced and captivating performances.

• The film's non-linear structure and minimalist approach create a unique viewing experience.

Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the film's artistic merit and the chemistry between the lead actors, though some found its pacing and contemplative nature to be slow.

Nominated for the Palme d'Or at the 2005 Cannes Film Festival.

Shu Qi and Chang Chen, who play lovers in all three segments, had a real-life romantic relationship that ended prior to the film's production, adding an interesting layer of subtext to their on-screen chemistry.