The First Film From a Master Director

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MOVIE REVIEW
Pushing Hands (Tui shou)
New 2K restoration

Genre: Comedy, Drama
Year Released: 1991/2022 (restoration)
Runtime: 1h 45m
Director: Ang Lee
Writer(s): Ang Lee, James Schamus
Where To Watch: Premiering at Brooklyn’s Bam Rose Cinemas on 4/1 with additional markets. DVD/Blu-ray 5/10

This beautifully restored 2k version of director Ang Lee’s (THE WEDDING BANQUET, THE ICE STORM, CROUCHING TIGER, HIDDEN DRAGON, BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN, LIFE OF PI) debut film, we’re given a tiny peek into the exceptional talent that will emerge. Lee’s work is synonymous with quality. Very few could pick any of his films except HULK, and I think it was just ahead of its time (okay, and BILLY LYNN’S LONG HALFTIME WALK) and say anything negative about his ability to tell a story.

This film is the first in a loose trilogy of films in which Lee looks into the issues of praising tradition over the present day. Followed by THE WEDDING BANQUET (one of my all-time favorite films) and EAT DRINK MAN WOMAN, these films show how important family and tradition are, especially in different cultures.

Not only did Lee direct the film, but he also wrote it, which just cements my comments even further. The main cast of Sihung Lung (Mr. Chu) and Deb Snyder (Martha Chu) truly complement Lee’s directing style so well. The most understated role in the film may belong to Bo Z. Wang (Alex Chu), who acts as a go-between for Mr. Chu and Martha. Alex is married to Martha and is Mr. Chu’s son.

If you watch and enjoy this film, I suggest checking out Lee’s two follow-up films as they complement each other. If you happen to see THE WEDDING BANQUET, I would love to hear your thoughts.

Right now, the new restoration has showings scheduled for Brooklyn, Washington, Santa Monica, and Cleveland. The Blu-ray/DVD/Digital editions will be available on 5/10

SPOILERS:
The entire film centers around Mr. Chu’s battle against his new lifestyle in New York. Things that we take for granted every day become absolute roadblocks in day-to-day life. While I touch lightly on the topic above, Alex plays such a vital role in the film, even though it felt like his dad and wife were the film's main stars. If it weren’t for him interpreting (politely), then the tension and back and forth between the two leads really wouldn’t exist.

Thanks to Foundry Communications and Film Movement for allowing me to screen this beautiful film!

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