Yi Yi

Main Plot

"Yi Yi," directed by Edward Yang, is a contemplative drama that explores the lives of a middle-class family in Taipei. The film begins with a wedding and ends with a funeral, encapsulating the cyclical nature of life. The narrative follows three generations of the Jian family, each dealing with their own personal struggles and existential questions. NJ, the father, grapples with professional and marital dissatisfaction. His teenage daughter, Ting-Ting, experiences the pangs of first love and guilt. The young son, Yang-Yang, seeks to understand the world through photography. The grandmother's coma serves as a silent witness to the family's unfolding dramas. Through its detailed and poignant storytelling, "Yi Yi" delves into themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning in everyday life. The film's nuanced portrayal of ordinary moments highlights the profound impact of seemingly mundane experiences.

Characters

• Nien-Jen Wu plays NJ, a middle-aged businessman facing personal and professional crises, navigating family dynamics and existential questions.
• Elaine Jin plays Min-Min, NJ's wife, who struggles with existential questions and family responsibilities, highlighting the emotional and relational complexities within the family.
• Issei Ogata plays Mr. Ota, a Japanese businessman who becomes a mentor and friend to NJ, offering guidance and insight during NJ's personal and professional struggles.

Ending Explained

In the concluding scenes of Edward Yang's film "Yi Yi," the narrative threads of the Jian family come to a poignant resolution. The grandmother, who has been in a coma for much of the film, passes away, prompting the family to gather for her funeral. This event serves as a moment of reflection for each family member. NJ, the father, grapples with his unfulfilled dreams and the complexities of his relationships, particularly with his wife Min-Min and his old flame, Sherry. Ting-Ting, the teenage daughter, confronts her feelings of guilt and confusion, finding a semblance of peace after a tumultuous period of self-discovery. Yang-Yang, the young son, continues to explore the world with his innocent curiosity, symbolizing hope and the continuity of life. The film closes with Yang-Yang delivering a heartfelt speech at the funeral, expressing his love and the lessons he has learned. This ending encapsulates the film's exploration of life's cyclical nature, the interconnectedness of experiences, and the enduring impact of family bonds.