Cast
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Dee Hsu
as Didi Shang-guan / Xu Chunmei
Lin Chi-Ling
as Shang-guan Lingling
Jin Shijia
as Xiao Kou / No. 51
Li Zifeng
as No. 49
Luke Wu
as News Conference Male Star
Zong Ying
as White-haired Assistant
Riva Chang
as Sweet Girl
Cheng-Ping Chao
as Stomach Medicine Commercial Director
Hank Chen Han-Dian
as Wang Diandian
Chen Wei-Min
as Treadmill Producer
Jason Chung
as Wrestling Program Host
Fan Tiantian
as Film Production Manager
Fu Lei
as Xia Wuji
Huang Jun-Lang
as Spilling Water Staff
Tender Huang
as Lawyer Fang
Crew
Director
- Kevin Tsai
Writer
- Kevin Tsai
- Liao Ming-Yi
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
DiDi's Dreams represents a fascinating example of Romance/Comedy/Fantasy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Kevin Tsai 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2017, 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 DiDi's Dreams took approximately 3 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 91 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 121 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 143 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 6 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2017, when this film is released:
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While DiDi's Dreams 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 Piano Teacher, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, DiDi's Dreams subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Golden Door and Reflections in a Golden Eye explore similar territory, DiDi's Dreams stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: May 27, 2017
- Runtime: 1h 31m
- Revenue: $2,748
