STARRY STARRY NIGHT (Tom Lin). 99 minutes. Subtitled. Opens Friday (March 23). For venues and times, see Movie Listings. Rating: NNNN
This disarmingly sweet and heartfelt Taiwanese fantasy proves that family films needn’t be emotionally manipulative or packed with pop culture references.
Adapting Jimmy Liao’s children’s book, Tom Lin weaves a whimsical story about Mei and Jay, two kids rejected by their classmates and quietly suffering in broken homes who find acceptance in shared fantasies. As they struggle with the onset of adolescence, an awkward first love blossoms over art projects. When alone, their handmade creations come to life in Mei’s mind like life-sized origami pets.
Lin gets wonderfully naturalistic performances out of young leads Xu Jiao and Lin Hui-min and uses impressive CGI to bring the kids’ childish creations into their depressing lives. Though special effects grab attention, Mei’s troubled emotional journey leaves a more lasting impression.
The director vividly captures the moment when adult reality replaces childhood fantasy, when Mei’s parents’ impending divorce interrupts her daydreams.
Cynics might scoff at the simplicity of the story and themes, but anyone who remembers that awkward childhood transition will be flooded with familiar emotions.
The film is a welcome escape for families with children old enough for their first subtitled fare.