Cast
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Josie Ho
as Flavia
Tian Yuan
as Yip
Eric Kot Man-Fai
as Ming
Isabel Chan Yat-Ning
as Young Flavia
Stephanie Che Yuen-Yuen
as Jin
Joman Chiang
as Young Jin
Kenneth Tsang
as Flavia's Father
Lau Hung-Dau
as Flavia's Mother
Pauline Yam Bo-Lam
as Rosa
Jennifer Kong
as Samantha
Zeni Wong
as Muriel
Calvin Poon Yuen-Leung
as Man in Coffee Shop
Carl Ng Ka-Lung
as Carl
Zeni Wong
as Muriel
Sze-To King-Fung
as Flavia's Brother-in-Law
Crew
Director
- Gorretti Mak Yan-Yan
Writer
- Gorretti Mak Yan-Yan
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Butterfly examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Gorretti Mak Yan-Yan brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2004, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Butterfly took approximately 35 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 124 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 160 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 45 unique compositions.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
- The screenplay went through 6 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2004, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Butterfly shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Kissed, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Butterfly subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Open Window and Freak Show explore similar territory, Butterfly stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 2, 2004
- Runtime: 2h 4m
