Welcome to our Colossus Movie Guide for Chungking Express. This guide contains everything you need to understand the movie. You’ll find a quick explanation of Chungking Express, as well as our library of material covering key aspects of the movie. We encourage comments to help us put together the best possible guide. Thank you!
The Quick Explanation
Chungking Express is a film about lonely people trying to discover their identity while finding true love. The urban environment of Hong Kong heightens the characters’ sense of loneliness and increases their desire to be in a meaningful relationship.
The movie has two parts with two different stories, but there are several crossover elements between those stories. Common occurrences that link these two tales include diegetic music, expiration dates, speaking and assigning meaning to inanimate objects, etc. These elements bind the stories to show how social isolation and the burning desire to find love affects all kinds of people in different environments.
Director Wong Kar-Wai’s hypnotic stylistic choices highlights the tension of these characters’ lives. At times the film is slow and contemplative, emphasizing the transitory nature of life; while at other moments the pacing is chaotic and disordered, showcasing the manic desire to make sense of every little moment that passes by. Together, these stylistic approaches accentuate the patience required for self-discovery: you can’t find love until you find yourself. You can’t lose sight amidst the chaos, and you must learn to reflect within the solitude. Once you learn to control your surroundings and build your own space, you can create a healthy foundation for love.
Cast
- Brigitte Lin – woman in blonde wig
- Takeshi Kaneshiro – Cop 223
- Faye Wong – Faye
- Tony Leung Chiu-Wai – Cop 663
- Valerie Chow – the flight attendant
- Chan Kam-Chuen – the manager Midnight Express
Movie Guide
Podcast
Chris and Travis share an in-depth discussion of the strengths and flaws of Chungking Express.
Title Explanation
What does the title Chungking Express mean? What does it tell us about the movie’s intentions and storyline? Let’s figure it out.
Themes and Meaning
Discover themes that help us define Chungking Express‘s commentary, message, and meaning.
Ending Explained
If the ending of Chungking Express confused you, this explanation will help you understand everything you need to know. Coming soon.
Important Motifs
Explore important motifs that indicate Chungking Express’s most crucial moments of symbolism.
Key Shots
A visual guide to Chungking Express. Coming soon.
Questions and Answers
If you have questions about Chungking Express, we have answers. Comment what you’re curious about and receive a response. Coming soon.
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