“Rice Rhapsody” was a tasty treat of Chinese humanism, almost as much as was the Hainan Chicken Rice/Duck Rice from the cooking competition that brought everyone together at the end. In his directorial debut, writer/director Kenneth Bi allowed the real touch of Hainan China to come through. The dialog was written as the language was actually spoken, in a flowing mixture of English and Mandarin Chinese, (Subtitle in both). The clipped/rush of dialog actually became comfortable to listen/read.
Jen is raising the last of three sons. Leo is studious and an athlete – cyclist. Unfortunately for his mother, he lacks an interest in girls. Fearing she’ll be without grandchildren (her first two sons were gay), she attempts to bring about a hetero-awaking in her last son. In doing so, she pushes all her sons away. With the help of a live-in exchange student, and her competition/suitor neighbor, she sees past their personal choices and back to the family.
The film is backed with big names. Executive Producer is Jackie Chan. Martin Yan (of ‘Yan Can Cook’ fame) plays the Jens love interest.
Filmed with authenticity and a quiet demand for attention, “Rice Rhapsody” was compelling in story, in character development, and in filming. Nicely done.
WFC