Reviewed by Jason Cruz
Northwest Asian Weekly
“Romancing in Thin Air” is a movie about letting go. A famous Hong Kong movie star is left at the altar by his bride for her longtime childhood sweetheart in front of family, friends, and the paparazzi. While the bride and other man ride off into the sunset, the story looks at the other side of the storybook ending.
Michael Lau, played by Louis Koo, numbs his pain by drinking and retreats to a secluded hotel in the forest in order to escape the embarrassment and disappointment of his failed relationship. There, he meets Sue, the proprietor of the hotel. While other employees at the establishment fawn over Michael’s celebrity status, Sue, played by Sammi Cheng, is much more reserved due to the loss of her own husband. It is discovered through flashbacks that he disappeared in the wooded area near the hotel trying to save a child’s life.
The irony of the situation is that Sue is one of Michael’s biggest fans, as she holds membership “033” in his fan club. While Michael and Sue begin to draw closer, there are issues that keep them apart.
The film is slow to develop in the beginning, although the last half of the film helps explain the first half through flashbacks.
The ending is surreal for one of the characters, as an alternate ending is played out through a film made by Michael. The overarching theme of overcoming personal tragedy is tastefully crafted in this touching romantic drama. If you are looking for a love story and good cry (for some of you), this is a good movie to see. (end)
“Romancing in Thin Air” showtimes:
May 28 at 8 p.m. at Pacific Place
May 30 at 4 p.m. at SIFF Cinema Uptown
June 4 at 8:30 p.m. at Kirkland Performance Center