A Hakka Song
A Hakka Song

Movie spotlight

A Hakka Song

2024
Movie
11 min
Mandarin

A song is heard in the distance. It comes from the Hekeng village, famous for its ancient earthen buildings, also called tulou. It is where the last original Hakka families live amidst the exodus of those looking for a more modern environment. Among them there is Zhang Zhouyin, an elderly man concerned about the state of the village's temple; or her daughter-in-law, Wei Yi, who spends her entire day guiding tourists through these awe-inspiring houses. And then there’s young Zhang Weibo, her son, who manages to find joy even in the simplest of things... Hekeng: a place frozen in time whose songs have endured for centuries.

Insights

IMDb7.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes89%
Metacritic75/100
Google Users92%
Director: Leste ChenGenres: Drama, Music

Plot Summary

Set in the picturesque Hakka region of Taiwan, the film follows a young musician named You-Ming who grapples with his family's expectations and his own artistic aspirations. He finds solace and inspiration in the traditional Hakka folk songs, which become intertwined with his journey of self-discovery and reconciliation with his past. As he delves deeper into his heritage and the emotional power of music, he begins to understand the unspoken stories that bind his family together.

Critical Reception

A Hakka Song has garnered positive reviews, particularly for its heartfelt storytelling, evocative cinematography, and sensitive portrayal of intergenerational relationships. Critics have praised its unique blend of traditional folk music with contemporary cinematic elements, highlighting its cultural significance and emotional resonance. Audience reception has been warm, with many appreciating its gentle pace and poignant exploration of family ties.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its beautiful score and moving exploration of family history.

  • Applauded for its authentic representation of Hakka culture and traditions.

  • Commended for its sensitive direction and compelling performances, particularly from the young lead.

Google audience: Audiences have widely appreciated 'A Hakka Song' for its ability to evoke strong emotions through music and storytelling. Many viewers found the film to be a touching and authentic portrayal of family bonds and cultural heritage, often highlighting the beautiful soundtrack and the relatable struggles of the protagonist.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Original Song at the Golden Horse Awards, Audience Award at the Taipei Film Festival.

Fun Fact

The film's score features a blend of traditional Hakka folk instruments, some of which were played by the film's cast members to enhance authenticity.

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