Vivian Qu is a rising star in China’s film industry, known for her work on Angels Wear White and Girl on Wire. Girl on Wire, her latest film, continues to explore the challenges faced by young women in Chinese society. The story follows Tian Tian and Fang Si, two cousins whose lives take different paths but remain intertwined. With a larger budget, this film is Qu’s most polished work to date, though some fans may find it less impactful than her previous films.
Girl on Wire tells a complex story through interlocking timelines, focusing on themes of exploitation and societal complicity. Qu is a talented screenwriter who uses genre elements to address important social issues. While the film showcases Qu’s ambition and intent to create meaningful stories, some parts of the script feel underdeveloped. The characters and villains in the film are portrayed in a somewhat cliched manner, lacking depth and complexity.
Despite its flaws, Girl on Wire has moments of brilliance, particularly in its cinematography and performances. The film touches on themes of freedom and liberation, symbolized by the characters’ desire to fly. However, the execution of these themes may feel heavy-handed at times, limiting the impact of the story.
Qu’s direction shines in certain sequences, capturing moments of tension and emotion. The film’s pacing, propelled by flashbacks and time jumps, keeps the audience engaged. Lead actress Liu delivers a strong performance, bringing depth to her character despite the limitations of the script.
Overall, Girl on Wire is a mixed bag, showing both the strengths and weaknesses of a filmmaker navigating a larger budget and higher profile. While the film may not reach the heights of Qu’s previous work, there is potential for her to continue evolving as a filmmaker. Girl on Wire premiered at the 2025 Berlinale, leaving audiences with mixed reactions.
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