“A Dance in Vain”, interview with the director Lee Hong-Chi and actress Cici Wang

Lee Hong-Chi’s latest movie, “A Dance in Vain”, showcased at Venice Critics Week at the 82nd Venice Film Festival, delves into the cityscape of Shanghai to portray a landscape of lost hopes and silent struggles. The film captures the emotional landscape of contemporary urban youth, blending minimalist acting with poetic narrative techniques that evoke both despair and resilience. We talked about the movie with director Lee and actress Cici Wang.

A Portrait of a Changing Shanghai

Set against the backdrop of a city grappling with economic decline, “A Dance in Vain” paints a portrait of Shanghai as a place where dreams fade amidst growing urban alienation. The film’s protagonist, Monkey, a young artist searching for her space in this ambiguous city, embodies the sense of disconnection felt by many young people today. “This city is no longer a land of dreams but a place of unfulfilled hopes,” explains Lee Hong-Chi. The narrative explores how economic hardships and social pressures influence the aspirations of the new generation.

Minimalism and Voiceover as Narrative Tools

One of the hallmarks of “A Dance in Vain” is Lee Hong-Chi’s deliberate use of minimalistic acting, especially in the portrayal of Monkey, played with restrained emotion by actress Cici Wang. The director emphasizes internal expression, requiring actors to convey complex feelings through subtle gestures and minimal dialogue. This approach heightens the film’s contemplative atmosphere.

Lee Hong-Chi also employs classical voiceover techniques, reminiscent of film noir, to express the inner worlds of the characters. “Voiceover allows us to delve into mental journeys that visuals alone might not fully capture,” he explains. The technique creates a layer of introspection and regret, adding depth to the narrative and encouraging viewers to reflect on the characters’ inner struggles.

Themes of Generation and Hope

Reflecting on the film’s themes, Lee Hong-Chi discusses the emotional state of today’s youth. Although material needs are generally met, many young people grapple with existential questions: “What is the purpose of life? Can I fulfill my dreams?” He highlights that younger generations, unlike their predecessors, face intense social pressures despite experiencing relatively comfortable childhoods. His observations are grounded in real-life encounters, as most actors and locations are non-professionals and authentic settings within walking distance from his home.

“While they are financially stable, many young people feel lost and question their future,” Lee Hong-Chi notes. The film portrays this internal conflict, capturing both the superficial vibrancy of urban life and the deep-seated despair of unmet expectations.

Authentic Urban Life in Cinematic Style

Shot in real locations such as cafés, floral shops, and streets near the director’s residence, “A Dance in Vain” emphasizes authenticity. The casual, candid atmospheres contribute to the film’s realism, immersing viewers in contemporary Shanghai life. By depicting everyday environments and non-actors, Li Hongqi creates a raw and intimate portrait of a city and its young inhabitants.

A Reflection on Urban Identity and Personal Purpose

“A Dance in Vain” is a reflection on the evolving identity of urban youth amidst societal change. The film raises questions about hope, purpose, and the ongoing search for individuality in a city of shifting dreams. It offers a poetic yet unflinching look into the emotional landscape of modern China.

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