Before Morning Comes

In a desolate, near-future landscape, a lonely wanderer named Hsiao-kang searches for connection in a world grappling with a mysterious plague that causes people to wither and die. He encounters a variety of solitary individuals, including a prostitute and a fellow traveler, forming fleeting bonds in his quest for intimacy and survival. The film explores themes of isolation, desire, and the search for meaning amidst a dying world.

Before Morning Comes received a mixed to positive reception from critics. While praised for its unique visual style and contemplative atmosphere, some found its slow pace and ambiguous narrative challenging. Audiences were similarly divided, with some appreciating its artistic merit and others finding it too abstract.

• Praised for its striking visual compositions and melancholic mood.

• Criticized by some for its deliberate pacing and lack of conventional plot.

• The film's exploration of human connection in a desolate future resonated with many.

Google audience: Audience reviews for 'Before Morning Comes' are scarce, but those available indicate a split reception. Some viewers found the film a profound and beautiful meditation on loneliness, while others felt it was overly slow and lacked a clear narrative drive.

Nominated for the Golden Leopard at the Locarno International Film Festival.

The film's minimalist set design and muted color palette were deliberately employed to enhance the sense of desolation and decay in its near-future setting.