Cast
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Andy Lau Tak-Wah
as Roger Leung
Deanie Yip Tak-Han
as Ah Tao
Qin Hailu
as Ms. Choi
Wang Fuli
as Roger's Mother
Paul Chun Pui
as Uncle Kin
Leung Tin
as Head Master
Wendy Yu Man-Si
as Sharon
Eman Lam Yi-Man
as Carmen
Elena Kong Mei-Yee
as Aunt Kam's Daughter
Jason Chan Chi-San
as Jason
Hui So-Ying
as Mui Gu
Anthony Wong Chau-Sang
as Grasshopper
Chapman To Man-Chat
as Dentist
Raymond Chow
as Guest at Premiere
Yu Dong
as Filmmaker
Crew
Director
- Ann Hui
Producer
- Roger Lee
- Jessica Chan Pui-Wah
- Ann Hui
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, A Simple Life 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 Ann Hui 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 critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of A Simple Life took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 118 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 149 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 142 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 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2012, when this film is released:
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While A Simple Life shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Oppressed Majority, which focuses more on action than character development, A Simple Life subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like O'er the Land and The Death of Empedocles explore similar territory, A Simple Life 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: March 9, 2012
- Runtime: 1h 58m
- Revenue: $2,802,459
