Backdrop preview Xia Aimei backdrop
Xia Aimei

Xia Aimei (2012)

Jan 12, 2012 1h 13m Drama

Piles of debt forces Xia Aimei (Franda), a girl from Yangshuo Guangxi, China, to be involved with human trafficking network. She is brought to Jakarta as an escort in a luxurious night club. One day Xia met AJ Park (Samuel Rizal), a cameraman who has been working in a documentary film production Discovery Underworld International. AJ meeting with Xia brought him to immigration officer conducting a human trafficking investigation and ultimately led AJ to a quest of saving Xia from the crime ring.

Directed by Alyandra

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Alyandra
Writer
  • Alyandra
  • Toha Essa
  • Sally Anom
Producer
  • Frederica

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Xia Aimei 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 Alyandra 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 2012, 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 Xia Aimei took approximately 6 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 73 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 105 minutes long.
  • The costume department created over 377 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
  • The film contains approximately 1873 individual shots.

Historical Context

  • In 2012, when this film is released:
  • Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Xia Aimei shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Freaks, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Xia Aimei offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Rewind and Clean, Shaven explore similar territory, Xia Aimei stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

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: January 12, 2012
  • Runtime: 1h 13m

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