I've read many of the recent comments made by IMDB members and am disappointed by various posts. Although I do agree with some that the portrayal of men was sometimes rather harsh, but everyone must remember that this movie's focus is relating to WOMEN! Including that not all male characters were negative, this film is about women dealing with believing in themselves and their mothers. Take for example, Rose, her husband loved her for who she was, but she was caught up in the traditional Chinese ideal that a wife must be obedient and self-sacrificing. Not understanding, her husband, of course, felt alienated and strange towards her. There is one scene where he tries to get her to talk for herself, to make her stop groveling before him, but she refuses to feel that she deserves anything. Eventually, Rose's mother gets her to see this through her own personal history of finally standing up for herself, her mother, and a generation of future women.
I am a first generation Chinese-American and the stories told by Amy Tan strongly empathized with me. These tales are a touching revelation of the tangible coldness that Chinese daughters and mothers often keep in their relationship. Although we may not always be able to say the things we mean or act the way we feel, there is that unspoken but often thought of love and connection between all mothers and daughters. This is especially apparent within the movie that accurately depicts the pain and anguish but above all hope that humans hold on to throughout their lives as a means to an end. I loved this movie that brought unhindered tears to my eyes and allowed me to see my mother through a different view. It is still difficult at times to remember that my mother has a story behind her tears and a history behind her bitterness, but at least I can understand that my mother only means well for me and my future, and I plan to make her proud.
I am definitely not saying that this movie is for everybody, because apparently it is not, but see it and don't judge too quickly until you've let the true message of the film settle in. I would also like to say that those of you who disliked the film, please put reasons behind your complaints for thus far I have only seen a few negative comments that have made any sense to me.
I am a first generation Chinese-American and the stories told by Amy Tan strongly empathized with me. These tales are a touching revelation of the tangible coldness that Chinese daughters and mothers often keep in their relationship. Although we may not always be able to say the things we mean or act the way we feel, there is that unspoken but often thought of love and connection between all mothers and daughters. This is especially apparent within the movie that accurately depicts the pain and anguish but above all hope that humans hold on to throughout their lives as a means to an end. I loved this movie that brought unhindered tears to my eyes and allowed me to see my mother through a different view. It is still difficult at times to remember that my mother has a story behind her tears and a history behind her bitterness, but at least I can understand that my mother only means well for me and my future, and I plan to make her proud.
I am definitely not saying that this movie is for everybody, because apparently it is not, but see it and don't judge too quickly until you've let the true message of the film settle in. I would also like to say that those of you who disliked the film, please put reasons behind your complaints for thus far I have only seen a few negative comments that have made any sense to me.