Beautiful 2012

About This Movie

Beautiful 2012 is really quite an eclectic mix, isn't it? Four shorts, each with its own flavor, yet they all resonate with a certain depth. Ann Hui's piece on gender transition feels both personal and universal, while Kim Tae-yong explores identity in a way that lingers. Gu Changwei’s take on pregnancy in China is both poignant and visually striking, capturing complexities of life in a few scenes. And then there's Tsai Ming-Liang, whose reflection on time and Hong Kong is almost poetic. The pacing varies, but there’s an atmospheric consistency that holds the collection together, making each segment feel like a piece of a larger puzzle rather than isolated tales.

Beautiful 2012 is a somewhat rare find in the collector's realm, often overshadowed by larger standalone works from the directors involved. The various aesthetic approaches and themes create a distinctive viewing experience, which has garnered a niche audience among those interested in short films and East Asian cinema. Formats are limited, and while it may not be the first title collectors seek out, its unique narrative threads and directorial styles make it worth considering for a diverse collection.