CIFF Quickie: Orz Boys
Orz Boys (2008)–***1/2
Quick Review
Two Taiwanese boys with rocky home lives rely on their imaginations (and a little mischief) as they make the journey to adulthood. Joyfully entertaining and, at times, rhapsodic, Orz Boy captures the spirit of childhood despite facing the turmoils of growing up. The cultural criticism combined with the story of early adolescents on the verge allows positive comparisons to The 400 Blows, while the animations give the film its unique artistic fingerprints. Directed by Ya-che Yang and starring Kuan-yi Lee and Chin-Yu Pang as the boys. From Taiwan.
This film was screened at the 33rd Cleveland International Film Festival. More at ClevelandFilm.org.