2021 * PG * 1h 36m This movie could loosely be categorized as a sci-fi film. But it's really a zen-like reflection on life and what it means to be human. It's gently paced and subtle. Not a lot happens, but what does happen, I found deeply moving. If you're looking for an action flick, avoid this one at all costs.
"After Yang" takes place in the near future. A couple, Jake (Colin Ferrell) and Kyra (Jodie Turner-Smith) buy a second-hand AI robot Yang (Justin H. Min) to look after and be a companion to their adopted daughter Mika (Malea Emma Tjandrawidjaja). Mika was born in China and the couple want her to learn about her birth country. One day Yang starts to fail and it turns out he can't be repaired. Jake finds out that Yang has been secretly recording snippets of his time with the family over the years. When he starts reviewing the video vignettes, it's revealed that Yang's hidden a part of his life from the family. It's almost as if Yang was becoming human.
I thought the performances, along with a beautiful storyline, and a quiet soundtrack combined to make a gorgeous film. I can see why it isn't better known. I've rarely seen a film that was this profound, as a result of being this subtle. It gently sweeps over you like an ocean tide. Yang delivers a line that I particularly enjoyed, and I'll paraphrase it: "Something isn't anything without nothing."
Currently streaming for free on Kanopy and Hoopla with your library card. And on Prime Video.
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