The Farewell Review

Writer/director Lulu Wang’s new feature film The Farewell is a touching story of loss and love. Skillful storytelling that beautifully blends humor, heritage, and heart to create a film that wonderfully tackles universally relatable themes in original ways. Although some themes of the film are left more unexplored than others, The Farewell is a touchingly thoughtful film that never ceases to feel authentic and human.

The Farewell follows Chinese American Billi as her family returns to China in order to visit her grandmother that is suffering from terminal lung cancer. Despite being told that she only has a few weeks to live, the family decides not to say anything about the time that the grandmother has left to prevent her from becoming upset, a decision that Billi doesn’t necessarily agree with. The family’s choice to keep the truth forces them to organize a fake wedding to get everyone together convincingly. Forcing Billi to maintain a lie that challenges her to navigate through bittersweet moments of loss that eventually make her think about the impacts of her past and future.

The wholesomeness of the film is accomplished by the combination of Wang’s sensitive dialogue and the organic acting of the cast. The story is based on experiences that Wang has had within her own family, and it’s clear that her exposure drives the film to become as emotionally powered as it is. The film’s ability to project themes of responsibility, time and family in culturally relevant ways is what helps keep the narrative fresh and riveting. The smooth directing from Wang gives The Farewell a simple yet polished presentation of beautifully framed shots that are consistently heightened by the warm cinematography from Anna Franquesa Solano.

Strange cuts and jumpy editing can sometimes be distracting throughout, and the film can also drag in parts as it sets up for heartfelt moments between characters. Though some scenes can feel overly simplistic or lack the emotional payoff that’s intended, much of The Farewell is a thoughtful and steady film that slowly envelopes you in its believable and interesting premise.

In a summer that has been populated and dominated by massive studio projects, it’s refreshing to see simplistic yet incredibly endearing indie ventures like The Farewell spending some time in theatres. Lulu Wang’s newest film is a beautifully enthralling tale and a refreshing change of pace that delivers impactful results.

An interesting premise powered by a touching screenplay and genuine performances helps make The Farewell a poignant story of family and cultural connections.

Produced By: A24
Runtime: 98 minutes
Rating: PG