Cast
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Linda Liu
as Mei
Sun Yueh
as Uncle Ya
Ng Siu-Gong
as Shih Chun Mai
Lee Lichun
as Ah Man
Hsiao Hou Tao
as Ah Kun
Chin Pin
as Chih Lan
Su Chu
as Ya's neighbor
Kong Ha
as Mrs Man
Chan Kai-Jun
as Ya's neighbor
Jue Fung-Gong
as Soldier/Ya's neighbor
Yee Hung
as Chih Lan
Chiang Hsia
as 阿滿之妻 / Mrs Man
Chen Chi-Chun
as
Crew
Director
- Kan Ping Yu
Writer
- Wu Nien-jen
- Sung Hsiang-yu
- Yip Wan-Chiu
- Raymond Wong Pak-Ming
Producer
- Karl Maka
- Raymond Wong Pak-Ming
- Dean Shek Tin
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Papa, Can You Hear Me Sing? examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Kan Ping Yu 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 1983, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Papa, Can You Hear Me Sing? took approximately 4 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 100 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 136 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The musical score contains over 76 unique compositions.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1983, when this film was released:
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Papa, Can You Hear Me Sing? shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The End of Fame, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Papa, Can You Hear Me Sing? subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Second Wife and Tamanna explore similar territory, Papa, Can You Hear Me Sing? stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: April 1, 1983
- Runtime: 1h 40m
