Father

About This Movie

So, 'Father' is this intriguing documentary by Yang Li-Chou that really dives into the life of puppeteer Chen Hsi-huang. You get to see him step out from the enormous shadow of his dad, the legendary Li Tien-lu. The pacing is quite deliberate, allowing you to absorb the nuances of traditional puppetry and the personal struggles Chen faces. It feels very intimate, with moments that capture both the beauty and challenges in the art form. The practical effects – those puppets are really something – almost come alive. And Chen's performance, it’s genuine. There's this mix of nostalgia and modernity that makes it quite distinct, almost a love letter to a craft that's not just about the puppets but the relationships behind them.

Focuses on traditional puppetryExplores familial relationshipsIntimate and reflective atmosphere