The Farewell [Blu-ray] [2019]

I found “The Farewell” to be an extraordinarily affecting film despite its delicate and subtle sensibility toward the multiple themes within it. This is its strength. These subjects include dealing with death and the cultural differences between East and West as well as the dynamics of family life. Though it is often matter-of-fact about these issues it leaves you with much to think about.

When a family comes together to say farewell to its matriarch who has terminal lung cancer, but not revealing to her of her terminal illness, each learn from her the value of living in the now. Sons, one tied to old Chinese tradition, and the other who has lived in America and has lost those ties of tradition, a granddaughter who is closest to her grandmother, but also Americanized, all endure with other members of the family, in a heartwarming story of learning what a life really matters, and that death, a reality, will eventually happen, although living in today makes all the difference. There is such joy in this wonderful family tale, where everyone learns and the dying grandmother somehow remains a victor.

Really enjoyed this film more than I thought I would. Akwafina gave such beautiful performance. Despite being a Chinese’s language speaking film for the majority of the duration. My family was filled with tears. We’re a Hispanic family and even some Chinese customs were similar to my Hispanic heritage. Thank you Lulu Wang for such a beautiful film.

1st Aquafina rules this film, she is an amazing talent and I hope to see it used properly again. 2nd this film is a wonderful heartfelt journey into the complexities of family.

After checking Rotten Tomatoes and viewing the trailer I added this to my list. I'm glad I did, the plot of supporting a family member through terminal illness and not letting them know they were sick was an interesting concept to me. This movie was great and it showed how the different members of the family shoulder the burden in support for their Mom/Grandmother. I love this family and it was a quality film to watch. I'm happy to have added this to my collection.

A deeply moving and compelling story, brought to the screen by an award-deserving Lulu Wang and even worthier Awkwafina in her best performance so far and Zhao Shuzhen as her larger-than-life Nai Nai.

Funny, sad, and overall an entertaining film. Don’t really know how else to describe it.

A Chinese family matriarch has terminal cancer but the family does not inform her. The family decide to return to China under the pretense of a wedding and visit her before she dies. The family members argue whether they should reveal the truth to the matriarch. The movie is very touching and reveals the differences between Chinese and American values.