Metamorphosis

Running time: N/A

United States Premiere First time director/writer Zhong Qiang presents an absorbing story of alienation and intrigue in contemporary China. Newly divorced taxi driver, A, lives in a flat opposite Business Man, B, and his young, beautiful wife, C, who often takes A's taxi on mysterious journeys. Meanwhile, D, a young girl who lives in the flat across from A, develops what she hopes will be more than a friendship with A. One day A happens upon a serious car accident involving B. At the scene, A finds a large amount of cash in B's bag and steals it before calling for help. Meanwhile, A and C begin a sexual relationship, and D, who has become B's caretaker, comes across the cash while snooping through A's drawers. If this all sounds confusing, don't worry. About the only one who really has a handle on everybody is the "old dumb lady" who works at the kiosk at the building and seems to know all. Director Qiang has stated that his intent is to interpret daily occurrences with Taoist philosophy. Acting as his own editor, he uses quick cuts and original framing shots to show us the complexities of life in a modern Chinese metropolis. Reviewed by Sandy Wolf. Preceded by: One Week Wake (Tammy Apana, 19 min., USA) Traditions, values, and culture are questioned amongst three generations of a Filipino American family when an unexpected death occurs.