Review: What Time Is It There? (2001)

Tsai Ming-liang's 2001 film, "What Time Is It There?", is a poignant exploration of time, distance, and the human condition. As collectors, we often seek films that offer more than just entertainment, and this film certainly delivers on that front. It's a meditative piece that invites viewers into a world where every minute detail counts, where silence speaks volumes, and where the passage of time is felt rather than just shown.

Plot Summary

The film centers around a young street vendor in Taipei named Hsiao-kang, who sells watches. After the death of his father, he finds himself disconnected and adrift, mirroring the fragmented relationships in his life. One day, he sells a dual-time watch to a woman named Shiang-chyi, who is leaving for Paris. Intrigued by her and perhaps seeking a connection, Hsiao-kang begins to set all the clocks in his sphere to Paris time. This simple act becomes a complex metaphor for longing and the invisible ties that bind us across distances.

Performances

Lee Kang-sheng, a frequent collaborator with Tsai Ming-liang, delivers a subtle yet profound performance as Hsiao-kang. His portrayal is marked by an understated expressiveness that captures the film's essence. Lee's ability to convey profound emotions with minimal dialogue is remarkable and adds a layer of depth to the film. Chen Shiang-chyi, playing Shiang-chyi, complements Lee's performance with her serene yet poignant presence. Her journey in Paris, marked by isolation and exploration, is portrayed with a quiet resilience that resonates with the audience.

Direction and Craft

Tsai Ming-liang's direction is characterized by his signature long takes and a minimalist style that allows the viewer to fully engage with the narrative. The deliberate pacing and the careful framing of each scene invite viewers into a contemplative state, mirroring the protagonist's inner world. The film's cinematography by Benoît Delhomme is exquisite, capturing the contrasting environments of bustling Taipei and the serene, sometimes alienating streets of Paris. Tsai's use of natural soundscapes over a traditional score further immerses the viewer into the film's meditative rhythm.

The film's thematic exploration of time and disconnection is enhanced by its visual storytelling. Tsai's camera often lingers on moments that would typically be cut in conventional filmmaking, emphasizing the passage of time and the emotional weight carried in silence. This approach requires a patient viewer, but the reward is a deeper connection to the characters and their experiences.

Collector's Verdict

For collectors, "What Time Is It There?" is a valuable addition to any film library, particularly for those interested in world cinema and the works of Tsai Ming-liang. The film's availability on DVD is perhaps the best format for collectors, given its rare status and the quality of the transfer. While not the easiest film to find, the hunt is part of the allure for any serious collector. Once acquired, it offers a thoughtful, introspective viewing experience that can be revisited multiple times, each viewing revealing new insights.

In terms of rarity, this particular title leans towards the rarer side, especially in regions outside of Asia. Its limited release and niche appeal make it a sought-after piece among collectors who appreciate the nuances of international cinema.

Overall, "What Time Is It There?" is a film that challenges and rewards its audience in equal measure. It offers an experience that stays with you, lingering in the mind long after the final frame fades. It's a film that encourages reflection, making it a deserving entry in any collection.

Star Rating

4.5 out of 5