“Brief History of a Family,” Interview with Director Jianjie Lin

In this exclusive interview, we delve into the intricate layers of “Brief History of a Family” with its director, Jianjie Lin. Set against the backdrop of China’s evolving societal landscape, the film explores the ambiguous intentions of its characters, particularly the enigmatic Shou. Portrayed in a way that enhances the audience’s intrigue, Shou invites deep reflection and discussion. “Brief History of a Family” won the prestigious Black Panther Award 2024 of Noir in Festival, further solidifying its impactful narrative and cinematic execution.

Director’s Journey and Festival Experience

During our conversation, Jianjie shared his excitement about attending the festival. “It’s my first time here, and I was able to see the town a little bit earlier, walking around,” he said, giving a personal touch to the interview. This warm introduction set the stage for a discussion that blended personal reflection with insights into his cinematic work.

Exploring the Ambiguity of Shou’s Character

One of the main themes discussed was the complexity of Shou’s character. Jianjie emphasized the character’s ambiguity, which adds depth to the film’s narrative. “In cinemas, you rarely see a character that is as ambiguous as this one,” he explained. Throughout the film, viewers are left questioning whether Shou is an intruder or simply a misunderstood friend. This creates a thriller-like tension that keeps the audience engaged. Jianjie’s commitment to developing a multifaceted character is evident in his extensive process, from scripting to casting, underscoring the importance of character development in storytelling.

Overcoming Funding Challenges

The film’s journey was not without its challenges. Due to the pandemic, funding proved to be a major obstacle, with Jianjie revealing, “The project took me many years to fund… we had co-production with Europe.” Despite these hurdles, the film was completed in 2022, with post-production work carried out in Copenhagen and Paris. Jianjie’s perseverance and dedication to the project are reflected in the film’s rich cultural elements and cinematic techniques.

The Socio-Political Context of China

As the film explores the aftermath of China’s one-child policy, it delves into themes of parental aspirations and the identity struggles of the only child, Wei. Jianjie noted, “This is always a struggle… I see it as a very universal conflict.” The film portrays a family under immense pressure, navigating personal ambitions and societal expectations—an issue that resonates globally.

Casting and Chemistry

Casting played a critical role in the film, and Jianjie spoke about the rigorous process of pairing actors to create authentic chemistry. “I screened numerous candidates, matching actors to foster a partnership that truly brought the characters to life,” he explained. Sun Qseilun and Moran Lee’s performances beautifully capture the tension between the siblings, adding emotional depth to the story.

Visual Aesthetic and Cinematic Choices

A key element in “Brief History of a Family” is its visual style. Jianjie aimed for a clean, almost clinical setting that mirrors the characters’ psychological states. “It works on two levels,” he said, blending traditional Chinese elements with Western influences. This visual approach creates a striking environment that enhances the narrative. The film’s meticulous color grading emphasizes clarity, urging the audience to engage closely with every scene. “Every frame is so clean, but it also asks the audience to really look carefully,” Jianjie explained.

Changing Perceptions of Chinese Cinema

Finally, Jianjie reflected on the evolving perception of Chinese cinema on the global stage. He noted the shift from viewing Chinese stories as exotic to recognizing their universal themes. “I think it’s a new Chinese cinema that hasn’t been done a lot,” he said, emphasizing that while Brief Story of a Family centers on Chinese customs, its core themes resonate with global audiences. His enthusiasm for breaking stereotypes in cinema shines through as he asserts, “Whatever happens in China is not that much different from whatever happens everywhere else in the world.”

“Brief History of a Family” is more than just a film; it is a deep exploration of identity, family dynamics, and the pressures of cultural expectations. Jianjie Lin’s thoughtful approach to storytelling invites audiences to reflect on their own lives, creating a meaningful dialogue that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. The film’s universal themes, coupled with its striking visual aesthetic and intricate character development, make it a must-watch for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of human relationships.

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