A reliable indicator of a film's entertainment value is its ability to keep viewers engaged, regardless of it's total screen time.
YOLO is one of those movies.
Directed and top-billed by Jia Ling, the comedy-drama has generated buzz after it became the highest-grossing Chinese film and second overall worldwide thus far this 2024 behind Dune: Part Two.
The film is an adaptation of the Japanese sports drama flick 100 Yen Love by Masaharu released in 2014.
YOLO's impressive showing at home hasn't gone unnoticed, and it was revealed in February that Sony Pictures acquired the rights to distribute the movie worldwide.
SYNOPSIS
Du Leying (Jia Ling), battling obesity and a lack of motivation, finds herself unable to embrace life's potential.
A series of unfortunate events, including a heartbreak, triggers a profound change in her outlook.
Curiously, redemption comes in the form of a popular but brutal sport: boxing.
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Slowly, Leying's life story unfolds, giving glimpses of her emotional burdens leading to her predicament and eventual unrelenting drive to turn her life around.
Is Leying's chance for a fresh start already lost? How will her journey in boxing help her quest to overcome past setbacks and disappointments?
THE VERDICT
Ling's portrayal of Leying commendably captures the character's highs and many lows through facial expressions and body language splendidly; she owns the role to a T.
Not to mention her dedication to shedding 50 kg (110 lbs) through months of intense workouts and training during filming to lend credibility to the narrative.
Read: How to lose weight fast — safely and surely!
Complementing Ling's impressive performance are the rest of the cast members, breathing life into each of their assigned characters with great outcomes.
Additionally, the film provides viewers who may not be accustomed to watching contemporary Chinese movies with a glimpse into the country's rich culture, portrayed vividly through its scenes and settings.
YOLO is armed with great storytelling that seamlessly combines the ingredients of drama, romance, comedy, and even action.
The sports element, of course, is nothing new and somehow gives the idea of how it would figure out for the main character and her path to redemption.
But kudos to Ling and her co-writers for turning a corner and avoiding the cliché route to illustrate Leying's vindication. Indeed, not all battles are won with obvious and huge results.
Here's where cinematic poetry intertwines with profound life lessons, and YOLO captures this delicate balance, combining subtlety with boldness to deliver its message.
Critics contend that the film may inadvertently perpetuate harmful ideals surrounding body image, potentially reinforcing toxic perceptions of physical beauty.
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This contradicts today's push for acceptance and inclusivity, unwittingly creating a disconnect between the film's message and contemporary societal values.
Read: Heart Evangelista embraces more positive perspective on beauty
Setting aside these mixed feelings, YOLO imparts a valuable lesson that speaks to all of us: the importance of being kind to oneself while striving to be a good person for others.
YOLO opens in cinemas nationwide on April 17, 2024.