In three separate segments, set respectively in 1966, 1911, and 2005, three love stories unfold between three sets of characters, under three different periods of Taiwanese history and governance.
Direction
Hou's masterful long takes breathe like memory itself.
Cinematography
Each era rendered in distinct, gorgeous visual textures.
Acting
Shu Qi and Chang Chen convey entire histories in glances.
Director
Hou Hsiao-hsien
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Hou originally planned three different actresses but cast Shu Qi in all three after being captivated by her presence.
Each segment mirrors Taiwan's political eras: Japanese colonialism, military dictatorship, and democratic modernity—love constrained by invisible systems of power.
TW
