In the captivating short film, 'Under the Wave off Little Dragon,' a Chinese girl's journey in a Welsh fishing village unfolds, offering a unique perspective on folklore and magic. This 14-minute masterpiece, directed by Luo Jian, is part of the 69th BFI London Film Festival's 'Discovering Home' collection, showcasing diverse stories.
The film's synopsis hints at a young girl's rejection of her mother's folklore, only to encounter something extraordinary. Starring Kexin Wang as the curious FeiFei, the movie also features an impressive cast, including Ah Mui Lau, Jessica Dong, and more.
'Under the Wave off Little Dragon' is one of four Film4 shorts at the LFF, supported by the BFI and Channel 4's Future Takes initiative. These films are given the creative freedom to explore unique narratives, with the finished products screened and later made available for streaming.
Luo Jian, the director, shares her inspiration for the film, revealing how her personal experiences influenced the story. She recounts her move from the U.S. to the U.K., feeling lonely and displaced, especially during the dark winter months. A family trip to Wales, with its green landscapes and reminders of her Chinese hometown, brought a sense of comfort.
"I saw hints of China everywhere in Wales. It kind of reminded me of my hometown – lots of sheep, lots of grass. I grew up in the greener part of the Gobi Desert in China."
Beyond the landscapes, Jian noticed Welsh dragon statues, sparking a playful argument with her boyfriend about their Chinese origins. This observation led to a deeper exploration of cultural intersections and the film's central theme.
The charismatic young star, Kexin Wang, was discovered through a rigorous casting process. Jian explains how she sought to cast real people, believing it adds a layer of authenticity to the film. Wang, who speaks Chinese at home but has English as her first language, brought a unique perspective to the role of FeiFei, influencing the script's evolution.
"I find it more fun to get to know this person. Through improvisation, we mapped out a different theme. So, it became about a second-generation [kid] rather than a first-generation immigrant."
FeiFei's mother, a first-generation immigrant, plays a crucial role in the film, sharing stories from her hometown and creating a dynamic relationship with her daughter. The film's symbolism, featuring fish and dragons, draws from Chinese culture, where fish equals dragon, representing the pursuit of a better life.
Jian's personal beliefs about folklore are intriguing. While she doesn't subscribe to such tales, she explores the curiosity they can evoke, especially in a mother-daughter relationship.
As for future projects, Jian mentions brewing feature ideas but acknowledges her deliberate writing process.
'Under the Wave off Little Dragon' offers a thought-provoking exploration of identity, culture, and the magical moments that bring us comfort. It invites viewers to reflect on their own journeys and the stories that shape them.
What are your thoughts on the film's themes? Do you relate to the idea of finding comfort in unexpected places? Share your insights and let's spark a conversation!
