Ermo (1994)
A humble noodle-maker in a remote Chinese province, Ermo feels that she's being taken for granted by family and friends. She decides the best way to impress them is to bring home the biggest, most expensive television set she can find - no matter how many noodles she has to peddle.
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Boring
If the ambition is to provide two hours of instantly forgettable, popcorn-munching escapism, it succeeds.
It’s fine. It's literally the definition of a fine movie. You’ve seen it before, you know every beat and outcome before the characters even do. Only question is how much escapism you’re looking for.
This movie feels like it was made purely to piss off people who want good shows
As a matter of fact, it happened quite frequently in China. This is the struggle of common people who were near the bottom of the society, without wealth or status. They do not desire much, a television set would be very satisfactory and they work diligently to accomplish their goals, and eventually success in the little progress made in improving their lives.
A wonderful film.Ermo ("Second Girl")--a woman not even given a proper name--never wavers from her quest. Her singleminded pursuit is both heartening--as we come see her drive and self-discipline; and heartbreaking--as she, and we, see it for the empty goal it is.For Westerner's, who rarely see China beyond Beijing, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and more rarely Xian and Kuilin, this film gives a rare insight into the life of the countryside. "Socialism with Chinese characteristics" is creating ever more women and men like Ermo.
Although the story is simple, without gorgeous people and spectacular scenery, this film nevertheless captivated my wife and I with insights into daily life of villagers in northern China. In particular, we were amazed at the way in which Ermo kneads dough and presses it out for her 'twisty noodles'.There is a clear message about the foibles of getting caught up in consumerism, but it does not have an anti-capitalist communist slant which would corrode the film's honest style.If you enjoy seeing art house films, or like viewing other cultures, then try this film. The acting is solid and some humourous parts lighten the rather harsh life. Without the usual formula of sex, violence and car chases, this is a refreshing and very real film.
I haven't seen many movies from Hong Kong and/or China, but this light? drama seems to "fit in". The story revolves a strong, stubborn, hardworking simple woman from a village, with an impotent husband (physically or mentally, the first one here). Same as in Qui Ju da guan si (The Story of Qui Ju), Huozhe (Living/Lifetimes), Wian hun nu (Woman Sesame Oil Maker): all have stories and leading actresses completely perfect.Amazing story, gentle, at life's pace- but still without tiring repetition. Wonderful first half, the second doesn't lack great moments either. Highly recommended.