Old Young Man
Old Young Man

Movie spotlight

Old Young Man

1969
Movie
23 min
English

"This film portrays basketball star Bill Bradley in his school days as a Rhodes Scholar, and later as a member of the New York Knickerbockers and a volunteer worker in the Harlem ghetto. The film also shows Bradley as he sees himself and sorts out his thoughts concerning his past and future" (US National Archives).

Insights

Director: Heng-chih LiangGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

The film tells the story of a young man struggling with societal expectations and his own identity in 1960s Taiwan. Facing pressures from his family and community to conform to traditional roles, he grapples with his desire for personal freedom and artistic expression. His journey involves navigating complex relationships and challenging the status quo.

Critical Reception

The film was a significant work in Taiwanese cinema, praised for its sensitive portrayal of youthful angst and its examination of traditional versus modern values. It resonated with audiences for its relatable themes and artistic merit, though critical reviews often highlighted its slow pacing.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its poignant exploration of a young man's inner conflict.

  • Appreciated for its realistic depiction of societal pressures in mid-20th century Taiwan.

  • Some critics found the pacing to be deliberately slow, which may not appeal to all viewers.

Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the film's emotional depth and its success in capturing a specific cultural moment, with many appreciating its introspective nature.

Fun Fact

Old Young Man is considered a seminal film in the New Taiwanese Cinema movement, even though it predates the official start of the movement.

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