Is Past Present Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2013)
A contemplative trip down memory lane with one of the leading voices of the Second New Wave of Taiwanese Cinema. Saw Tiong Guan clearly established a very personal bond with his su...
โจ The Quick Verdict
If you are a fan of Documentary cinema, then Past Present offers a standard experience that justifies its existence in the 2013 landscape.
๐ฅ Target Audience
๐ Detailed Analysis
๐ The Core Premise
With the release of Past Present (2013), audiences are invited back into the world of Documentary. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "A contemplative trip down memory lane with one of the leading voices of the Second New Wave of Taiwanese Cinema. Saw Tiong Guan clearly established a very personal bond with his subject, and also found many of Tsai Ming-liangโs colleagues prepared to complete this portrait of a quiet yet outspoken artist."
๐ฌ Performance & Direction
A movie's success often hinges on its execution. In Past Present, Chen Shiang-Chyi delivers a serviceable performance that keeps the narrative moving. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Documentary. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.
๐ค Why You Should Watch (or Skip)
Is Past Present worth your time? If you appreciate Documentary films that take risks, this is likely a decent one-time watch. However, if you are looking for a flawless masterpiece, you might find some plot points predictable.
๐ Final Verdict
Ultimately, Past Present is a mixed bag with some redeeming qualities.
With a runtime of 76 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.
Our recommendation: Watch on OTT.
โณ Time Investment
At approximately 1.3 hours, the film requires a standard time commitment.