Cities of Last Things (Movie)

Title — Cities of Last Things
Available on — Netflix, Netflix basic with Ads
Production Country — Taiwan, China, France, United States
Release Date — 2018
In a dystopian tale unfolding in reverse chronology, a man with a complicated past takes revenge on the individuals who wronged him decades ago.

🪶 Story & Synopsis

“Cities of Last Things” is a captivating and poignant film directed by Ho Wi Ding, which unfolds in reverse chronological order, revealing the life history of an ordinary man. The movie spans 1 hour and 46 minutes, offering a unique narrative structure that challenges viewers to piece together the protagonist’s story.

The story, set in a near-future dystopian world, follows a vengeful man portrayed by Jack Kao, whose journey is intricately linked to broken connections and past events. The film delves into the man’s motivations and actions, slowly unraveling the complexities of his character as the timeline moves backward.

One of the standout features of “Cities of Last Things” is its 35-millimeter cinematography by Jean Louis Vialard, which immerses viewers in a visually stunning and atmospheric experience. The film’s music, composed by Robin Coudert, complements the narrative, enhancing the emotional depth of the story.

Throughout the movie, the audience is taken on a thought-provoking journey that explores themes of revenge, redemption, and the impact of pivotal events on a person’s life. The cast delivers convincing performances, with Lee Hong-chi, Hsieh Chang-Ying, and Louise Grinberg embodying their characters with depth and nuance.

“Cities of Last Things” has garnered critical acclaim for its creative storytelling, breathtaking cinematography, and powerful performances. Despite the unconventional narrative structure and the use of subtitles, the film offers a satisfying and immersive viewing experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

Overall, “Cities of Last Things” is a cinematic gem that invites viewers to reflect on the profound effect of life’s defining moments and the interconnectedness of past, present, and future. It is a film that resonates with audiences on a deep emotional level, leaving them with a sense of contemplation and appreciation for the art of storytelling.

🧑 Cast & Crew

Jack Kao, Lee Hong-chi, Louise Grinberg, Huang Lu, Ding Ning

Movie Casting:

Actor Role
Jack Kao Zhang Dong Ling
Lee Hong-chi Young Zhang Dong Ling
Hsieh Chang-Ying Ara
Louise Grinberg Ara

💬 Reviews and feedback

Are you ready to dive into the intricate world of “Cities of Last Things”? Buckle up for a rollercoaster ride through the mundane yet extraordinary life of a common man, presented in three captivating parts that will leave you pondering long after the credits roll.

Imagine a movie that unravels the events of one man’s life in reverse, much like trying to put together a puzzle starting from the last piece. “Cities of Last Things” does just that, taking us on a journey through time and emotions as we piece together the complexities of human existence.

Plot and Themes:

  • The narrative structure of this film is nothing short of brilliant, as it weaves together the protagonist’s tumultuous journey in three distinct eras. Each era offers a unique perspective on his life, revealing layers of depth and emotion.
  • Themes of regret, revenge, and redemption are expertly explored throughout the movie, painting a poignant picture of how our past actions shape our present and future.

This unconventional storytelling approach grips you from the start and keeps you engaged as you unravel the intricacies of the protagonist’s life. The film masterfully captures the essence of human experience with its raw portrayal of emotions and choices.

Acting and Characters:

  • The cast delivers powerful performances that breathe life into their characters, making you empathize with their struggles and triumphs.
  • The protagonist’s evolution through different stages of his life is portrayed with nuance and sensitivity, showcasing the range and depth of the actor’s talent.

Each character feels authentic and relatable, adding layers to the narrative tapestry woven by “Cities of Last Things.” You’ll find yourself emotionally invested in their journeys, rooting for some while questioning others’ motives.

Direction and Cinematography:

  • Director Ho Wi Ding’s visionary approach shines through in every frame, capturing both the beauty and brutality of life with striking visuals.
  • The use of reverse chronological order adds an intriguing dimension to the storytelling, keeping viewers on their toes as they piece together the puzzle laid out before them.

The cinematography elevates the film to a cinematic masterpiece, immersing you in each era with its distinct visual style. From futuristic landscapes to intimate moments, every scene is meticulously crafted to evoke a range of emotions.

Score and Production Design:

  • The score perfectly complements the mood and tone of each era, enhancing pivotal moments with its evocative melodies.
  • The production design transports you seamlessly across time periods, creating immersive worlds that feel both familiar and foreign at the same time.

You’ll find yourself swept away by the film’s audiovisual tapestry, where every note and set design contributes to building an atmospheric experience that lingers long after the movie ends.

Editing and Pace:

  • The editing choices effectively drive home key plot points while maintaining a seamless flow between past, present, and future events.
  • The pace may feel deliberate at times but serves a purpose in allowing viewers to digest each revelation before moving on to the next layer of intrigue.

While some may find the pacing challenging initially, patience rewards with a rich tapestry of interconnected narratives that culminate in a satisfying resolution by the film’s conclusion.

Dialogues:

The dialogues in “Cities of Last Things” are sparse yet impactful, conveying profound emotions with minimal words. Each line carries weight, leaving room for introspection long after it is spoken. The minimalist approach to dialogue allows actions and expressions to speak volumes—a testament to effective storytelling without relying on verbosity or clichés.

Binge-watching Tips:

If you’re planning a movie night with friends or family for “Cities Of Last Things,” consider watching it twice for an enhanced viewing experience. The intricate details layered within each era warrant multiple viewings to fully appreciate Ho Wi Ding’s directorial finesse. Take note of subtle visual cues or character nuances that may offer deeper insights into this thought-provoking narrative.

Mood Comparison:

If you enjoyed films like “Memento” or “Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind” for their non-linear storytelling or exploration into memory and identity themes,”Cities Of Last Things” will undoubtedly pique your interest. Dive into this enigmatic tale with an open mind ready to unravel its mysteries.

Hypothetical Scenario:

Imagine if “Cities Of Last Things” had been told in chronological order—would it have had the same impact on viewers? How would experiencing events unfold traditionally alter your perception
of key characters or story arcs? Reflect on how narrative structure influences your engagement with complex plots like this one.

In conclusion,”Cities Of Last Things” is an immersive cinematic journey that defies conventions while delving deep into human nature’s complexities through its innovative storytelling techniques. It challenges viewers’ perceptions about cause-and-effect relationships across time periods—leaving them contemplating life’s interconnectedness long after watching.”Cities Of Last Things” Rating: 9/10.

Pros Cons
Captivating and poignant tale No pointing fingers or throwing blame
Delicate and allusive storytelling None as such
Outstanding technical execution None as such
Intriguing and atmospheric None as such
Riveting and thoughtful character study Shocking violence may not be for everyone

Feedback

  • Cities of Last Things - Wikipedia

    Release

    The film premiered in the Platform program at the 2018 Toronto International Film Festival, and was named the winner of the Platform Prize.It was released on July 11, 2019 on Netflix streaming in certain regions.

    References

    • ^”‘Cities of Last Things’: Film Review | TIFF 2018″.The Hollywood Reporter, September 12, 2018.
    • ^”‘Cities Of Last Things’: Toronto Review”.Screen Daily, September 10, 2018.
    • ^”TIFF 2018 Awards: ‘Green Book’ Wins the People’s Choice Award, Upsetting ‘A Star Is Born’”.IndieWire, September 16, 2018.
    • ^Cities of Last Things. Netflix.
  • Cities of Last Things (2018) - IMDb

    helpful•2617

    • chong_an
    • Sep 13, 2018
    • How long is Cities of Last Things?Powered by Alexa

    Details

    • Runtime1 hour 46 minutes
    • Color
    • Sound mix
    • Aspect ratio
      • 2.35 : 1

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  • 'Cities of Last Things' Review - The Hollywood Reporter

    Taiwanese filmCities of Last Thingsgoes from the future back into the past to retrace the existence of a man through his relationships with several women at different stages of his life. Though the tripartite, time-hopping structure isn’t exactly new — fellow Taiwanese director Hou Hsiao-hsien’sThree Timesand Chinese filmmaker Jia Zhangke’sMountains May Departcome to mind as obvious touchstones — what is different here is that the story is told in fully reverse chronological order, so themes such as memories, nostalgia and the root or source of certain decisions or behavior can all be explored. Though it takes a little while for the film to find its footing, this is an ambitious and, finally, also touching new work fromPinoy Sundaydirector Ho Wi Ding.

  • Cities of Last Things (2018) | Rotten Tomatoes

    Cities of Last ThingsWhere to WatchCities of Last Things

    Watch Cities of Last Things with a subscription on Netflix.

    My RatingCast & Crew

    Wi Ding HoDirectorLu HuangActorHong-Chi LeeActorLouise GrinbergActorJack KaoActorKuo-Chu ChangActor

⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)

In the movie “Cities of Last Things,” directed by Ho Wi Ding, the story revolves around Zhang Dong Ling, an ordinary man portrayed through the three most significant nights of his life. The film unfolds in a non-chronological order, starting with his death and then delving into his past, revealing the events that shaped him. Each segment acts like a standalone story, evoking various emotions related to the protagonist. As the narrative pieces together, a complex tale of love, loss, revenge, and redemption emerges.

The protagonist, Zhang Dong Ling, is a police officer in his late 60s, with a family consisting of a wife and a daughter. The film explores how he grapples with unresolved issues from his past, leading to a desire for revenge. The story unfolds in reverse, showcasing Dong Ling’s present actions and then delving deeper into his past to provide context for his current motivations.

Throughout the film, the focus is on the relationships Dong Ling forms, particularly with women, highlighting the significant connections in his life. Notably, there are no prominent male figures in his life, emphasizing the director’s exploration of the key ways in which a man bonds with a woman.

The third section of the film introduces a teenage Zhang Dong Ling and his relationship with a woman named Big Sis Wang. The narrative unfolds as Wang, a gangster, finds herself in trouble with the police, leading to a chance encounter with Dong Ling. As they navigate their predicament together, Wang eventually realizes that Dong Ling is her son, whom she had left in the care of her mother due to her criminal activities.

The revelation of Dong Ling’s true identity and his reunion with his mother shed light on his past, including his grandmother’s disapproval of Wang’s lifestyle choices. The emotional complexities of their relationship and the impact of Wang’s actions on Dong Ling’s upbringing add depth to the character dynamics in the film.

Overall, “Cities of Last Things” weaves a complex narrative through its non-linear storytelling, exploring themes of family, identity, and the lasting effects of past decisions on the present. The film offers a unique perspective on the protagonist’s journey through life, culminating in a poignant reflection on love, loss, and the search for redemption.

👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating

TV-MA

Age Rating:

“Cities of Last Things” is rated R for mature thematic content, violence, and some disturbing images. This movie is not suitable for viewers under the age of 17 without parental guidance.

Parental Guide:

Parents need to know that “Cities of Last Things” is a Taiwanese drama that explores three traumatic incidents in reverse chronology from a broken ex-cop’s life. The movie contains mature themes, violence, and some disturbing images that may not be suitable for younger audiences.

Sex & Nudity:

The movie contains no explicit sexual content or nudity.

Violence & Gore:

The film features scenes of violence, including a man committing suicide by jumping off a building. There are also depictions of physical altercations and gun violence throughout the movie. Some scenes may be intense and unsettling for viewers.

Profanity:

The movie contains occasional strong language and profanity.

Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking:

There are scenes depicting characters consuming alcohol, but drug and smoking content is minimal.

Frightening & Intense Scenes:

“Cities of Last Things” includes intense and emotionally charged scenes, including depictions of suicide, violence, and themes of loss and regret. The non-linear narrative style may also be challenging for some viewers to follow.

Parents should be aware of the mature themes and intense content present in the movie when considering whether it is suitable for their teenagers. It is recommended to watch the movie first to determine if it aligns with your family’s values and your child’s maturity level.

📺 Streaming and where to watch

streaming service extra information
Netflix Cities of Last Things can be watched on Netflix with a maturity rating of 16+. It is a drama movie in a dystopian setting unfolding in reverse chronology.
Netflix basic with Ads Cities of Last Things can also be watched on Netflix basic with Ads.

❝ Quotes and Cult

  • This is a story about a common man who has extraordinary events in his mundane life.
  • The film premiered in the Platform program at the 2018 Toronto International Film Festival, and was named the winner of the Platform Prize.
  • Directed by Ho Wi Ding, 'Cities of Last Things' tells the story of one man through the three most eventful nights of his life.
    Ho Wi Ding
  • The chief pleasure of the movie is the 35-millimeter cinematography of Jean Louis Vialard, who shoots mainly at night, taking wonderful advantage of the ways the light plays across city streets.
  • Cities of Last Things (Chinese: 幸福城市) is a Chinese Mandarin-language drama movie directed, co-produced, and written by Ho Wi Ding.
  • Cities of Last Things begins at the end, and it begins with a shock. A man jumps from the top of high rise building.
  • The film premiered in the Platform program at the 2018 Toronto International Film Festival, and was named the winner of the Platform Prize. It was released on July 11, 2019 on Netflix streaming in certain regions.
  • Directed by Ho Wi Ding, ‘Cities of Last Things’ tells the story of one man through the three most eventful nights of his life.
    Ho Wi Ding

🤖Cities of Last Things Reddit Talks

Cities of Last Things is a 2018 science fiction drama film directed by Ho Wi Ding and starring Ward Horton, Kerry Bishé, and Paloma Kwiatkowski. The film tells the story of a man with a complicated past who takes revenge on those who wronged him.

The film has been praised for its stunning visuals, its thought-provoking story, and its strong performances. However, some critics have found the film to be too slow-paced and confusing.

Overall, Cities of Last Things is a well-made and thought-provoking film that is sure to stay with you long after you watch it.

Here are some of the topics that have been discussed on Reddit about Cities of Last Things:

  • The film’s unique storytelling style. The film is told in reverse chronology, which gives it a unique and suspenseful feel.
  • The film’s exploration of the themes of revenge and redemption. The protagonist is a complex character who is both sympathetic and flawed.
  • The film’s stunning visuals. The film is set in a futuristic city that is both beautiful and haunting.
  • The film’s strong performances. The cast is excellent, and they bring the characters to life.

Here are some of the different points of view that have been expressed about Cities of Last Things:

  • Some people have praised the film’s unique storytelling style. They say that it keeps them engaged and guessing until the very end.
  • Others have found the film’s storytelling style to be confusing. They say that it is difficult to follow the story and that they lose interest.
  • Some people have praised the film’s exploration of the themes of revenge and redemption. They say that it is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant film.
  • Others have found the film’s exploration of the themes of revenge and redemption to be too heavy-handed. They say that the film is too preachy and that it does not offer any new insights into these themes.
  • Some people have praised the film’s stunning visuals. They say that it is a beautiful film to watch.
  • Others have found the film’s visuals to be too dark and depressing. They say that the film is difficult to watch and that it leaves them feeling down.
  • Some people have praised the film’s strong performances. They say that the cast is excellent and that they bring the characters to life.
  • Others have found the film’s performances to be wooden and unconvincing. They say that the cast is not believable and that they do not connect with the characters.

Overall, Cities of Last Things is a well-made and thought-provoking film that is sure to stay with you long after you watch it. However, the film’s unique storytelling style and its exploration of the themes of revenge and redemption may not be to everyone’s taste.

Top discussions

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What is the movie “Cities of Last Things” about?

“Cities of Last Things” is a drama film directed by Ho Wi Ding, released in 2018. The movie tells the story of a common man who experiences extraordinary events in his ordinary life. It follows the protagonist’s turns of events in three different eras, offering a captivating and poignant tale.”

What makes “Cities of Last Things” unique?

“Cities of Last Things” stands out for its innovative storytelling approach. The film portrays the life of a violent and vengeful cop in three parts, narrated backward. This unique structure deepens emotional mysteries and clarifies the sources of the protagonist’s actions, creating a compelling viewing experience.”

Is “Cities of Last Things” worth watching?

Yes, “Cities of Last Things” is definitely worth watching for those who appreciate thought-provoking and unconventional films. This dystopian noir movie blends elements of sci-fi and drama seamlessly, offering an outstanding cinematic experience with its quietly surreal visuals and engaging narrative.

Who should consider watching “Cities of Last Things”?

“Cities of Last Things” is recommended for viewers who enjoy atmospheric, riveting, and character-driven films that challenge traditional storytelling techniques. If you are a fan of complex narratives, emotional depth, and innovative filmmaking, this movie is a must-watch for you.

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