Rent Ciao Ciao (2017)

Channelling some Jia Zhangke ... but without the heart - Ciao Ciao review by CP Customer

It’s well photographed, and the performances are all on mark, but there isn’t much going on beyond a basic pointing toward rural urban divides in China. A lot of the other reviews I have read have waxed lyrical about this film, but there isn’t the depth or sympathy or even interest in people that’s evident when a Wang Xiaoshuai or a Jia Zhangke gets hold of these kinda of stories. Chinese reviews I’ve read are closer to the mark - this is a film with European festivals in mind, and the sheen of relevance has taken precedence over heart.

Another fine contemporary fim from China - Ciao Ciao review by TE

Fascinating insights into life in a rural Chinese village abound in this short sharp tale.

None of the characters are sympathetic or even likeable, but Song Chuan still manages to tell an intriguing tale of flawed lives and selfish actions.

The camerawork is excellent and the colour palette is bright and primary, like the emotions that drive the key players.

This film presents a very modernised China, but questions the erosion of values and community.

One of the worst films I have ever seen - Ciao Ciao review by AS

In searching for something positive to say about this film about the only comment I came up with was the scenery around the village was pleasant. The characters were crude, deceitful and ultimately boring. If you are seeking some soft porn, there are low grade examples which are also boring. If this was a propaganda piece about how communism kills the human spirit, then it would have some relevance.