There’s been a tendency recently to advertise films as the next big thing. Either the grittiest drama or the most emotionally draining horror, and not even independent films have escaped this marketing tactic. Which is why, even amongst its low budget counterparts, “The Farewell” is so gloriously refreshing.
As the film itself says, the plot is based on a true “lie,” and writer/director Lulu Wang pulls from real-life experiences to write a powerful family drama. At times, it's difficult to see which genre “Farewell” would belong in, but that’s not so much a sign of tonal problems as it is a sign of Wang’s brilliant script and deft directorial work.
Instead of allowing this tale to be confined to the restraints of comedy or drama, she instead lets the story breath in that happy middle ground that so closely resembles real life. Most scenes are joys to watch, simply to become better acquainted with the cast of characters Wang and her team have brought to life.
Awkwafina (“Ocean’s 8,” “Crazy Rich Asians”) delivers a star-making performance as the film’s lead, Billi. Her role is fairly understated, but she knows exactly when to deliver the emotions in exactly the way a scene requires. The balance between burnout mid-30s loser and loving favorite grandchild is maintained precariously, and it should set Awkwafina at the front of many best actress lists for this year.
Meanwhile, Zhao Shuzhen is the definition of a scene-stealer as Billi’s grandmother Nai Nai. The wit she brings to each scene is a highlight and she proves to be endlessly charming throughout. Tzi Ma (“Rush Hour 3,” “The Man in the High Castle”) and Diana Lin (“The Family Law”) also do wonderful work as Billi’s father and mother, respectively, delivering honest and tough portrayals of parents trying so hard to do what’s best for the family.
Everything in the film is shot with a gorgeously simplistic style by Anna Franquesa Solano (“Buck Run”) and underscored by top-shelf musical compositions from Alex Weston (“H.”). The production design and level of detail in this tale are all top-notch, as the entire film glows with a kind of familial warmth that is rarely achieved, even by the best films.
The genre-bending that goes on throughout the runtime of “The Farewell” may end up being the film’s weakest aspect. The real-life tonal balance that is maintained here is excellent, but it results in a film that is less startling, rock you to your core experience, than it is an extremely well-made piece of comfort food cinema.
While there are themes of familial love, where one truly belongs and growing with or against tradition, none of these themes takes over the film. Rather, they fill out the background and character’s motivations and allow the centerpiece of the film to remain warm and caring. This doesn’t mean these themes are worth thinking about or are done poorly though.
It’s just clear that “The Farewell” knows what it is from the start; this isn’t a deep, heady drama with gallons of melodrama and long shots meant to give the audience time to ponder. This may actually be the exact opposite of that. This is a frequently amusing, wonderfully told familial tale. One with stellar performances from the entire cast, and scene stealers around every corner. Sure, it may be film comfort food. But that’s entirely different from junk food. This is warm, healthy, good for you, comfort food that will leave you smiling and wanting to share the recipe with the world. Comfort food just like grandma used to make. 4.5/5
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