True Stories 46: 10s—The Farewell

I love the way the credits tell us that this film is based on a true story. Instead of reading “inspired by a true story” or “based on a true story” or any ordinary variation thereof, the credits read “Based on an actual lie”—which is a clever way of cluing us in to the fact that a lie was actually the impetus for the film.

One of the things I admire about this film is how Lulu Wang, who wrote and also directed the film, stuck to her guns in getting it made. It’s interesting to just look at the trajectory of this film from idea to finished product.

Wang, who had a film at Sundance, was on the radio talking about a true story from her own life that she thought might make a good film someday. Her grandmother back in China was dying from cancer and the family didn’t want to tell her that she was dying… but they all wanted to sort of say goodbye to her—but how do you do that without letting her know? So they decided to stage a fake wedding—this would serve as an excuse for all of the family to gather, and during that gathering, everyone could talk with her and, in their mind, say their goodbyes.

As it happened, a producer was listening to that radio show and got in touch with her—as he agreed that it would make a great film. Wang partnered with him and the project was born. But, to get it sold was another story…

Wang was adamant that this was a Chinese story and needed to be filmed in China with the characters speaking Chinese—so that meant subtitles for an American audience. And, as Wang told potential investors, the Chinese main character, the bride, would not have a white boyfriend! She was fighting—right up front—against stereotypes. SO much so that I’m surprised she got the film made! So HUGE kudos to her for sticking to her guns!!

Take a look at the trailer for the film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RofpAjqwMa8

As you can see, it ends up being about more than just one lie told to a grandmother. It becomes about the cultural differences between East and West.

This is a terrific example of how a small, little family story can reveal cultural differences, philosophical truths and—shocker—have fun with it! Because it would have been so easy for this to be heavy-handed. And how wonderful that it ends up being both light and fun, as well as deep and thoughtful.

Next week we’ll look at completely different way to tell a true story in One Night in Miami.

Copyright © Diane Lake

30Apr23

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