WATCH THE FILM HERE
First, the Recap:
Abiding, binding, heartfelt love. To have this deep level of attraction and unconditional feeling for another seems a rare gift, and one not to be taken or treated lightly. Yet, when one professes such devotion to another who isn’t as invested, how far would you be willing to go to convince them? Aspiring fashion designer Chen Wen (Zhuang Zhiqi) knows what it is to be on the receiving end of such unabashed affection, being directed her way by longtime friend and lover Wang Yuyang (Dongjun Han). Yet, despite his genuine heart and intent, she is hesitant, reluctant even, to accept or admit the same passion for him. So, to validate his authenticity, Wang offers ninety coins representing ninety days he has to assure her.
From the onset, their newly fueled attention to each other and his unwavering romantic gestures each day slowly but surely begin to fan greater flames of true love than they each experienced before. All seems well, with precious moments building the bond between them as the days count on. However, events take an unanticipated turn when the entire affair begins to lose its luster, and other life circumstances take over, hindering and derailing the meaning behind the daily coins. Soon, with Chen Wen given an opportunity to further elevate her career in Paris thanks to fellow fashion aficionado Andre (Jose Acosta), one misconstrued occurrence threatens the couple’s happiness, putting into question whether they choose to withstand the storm–or be consumed by it.
Next, my Mind:
Infused with a powerfully moving, deeply affecting, and hard-hitting moral, director Michael Wong’s brief, 10-minute short film packs an emotionally stimulating punch that strikes the heart and certainly delivers a relevant message about the promises of love we make and the ramifications found within the associated choices that follow. It begs the viewer to decide, right along with the two lead characters, how exactly they would potentially handle a situation such as is proposed and follow through or let the weight of indecision, uncertainty, and life itself unravel the beauty of a vow. Smoothly filmed via steady, purposeful cinematography and accompanied by a recurring, piano-driven theme, this is a true love story with a potent finale that puts an all-too-real perspective on the proceedings.
Han is very effective and persuasive as the highly motivated, doting lover Wang Yuyang, whose undeniable sincerity and relentless pursuit of the woman he loves is matched only by the ways he handles elations, frustrations, and disappoints encountered during an ever changing ebb and flow of his objective. Riding these currents, Han navigates Wang’s state of being with poise and succinct intent. Likewise, the irrefutably beautiful Zhiqi presents both an innocently charming, love-struck girl as well as fiercely independent, driven businesswoman as Chen Wen, whose world is encompassed by both the unpredictability of how she truly feels about Wang with the equally strong draw to see her own career dreams come to pass. With the giddiness of love’s newfound depth combined with life’s advancement, Zhiqi emotively covers it all wonderfully.
With its moving romantic foundation paired with its cautionary tale-based elements, “The Story of 90 Coins” is yet another example of how much can be presented in such a brief timeframe and done so with true aspiration, determination, and ultimate resolve to showcase a fresh take on love and the commitment it wholeheartedly entails, while also realizing the regret that can come from not following through or letting go too quickly. Director Wong’s sentiment rings so, so true–“Don’t let a promise be just a beautiful memory”. Truth to live by indeed.
As always, this is all for your consideration and comment. Until next time, thank you for reading!
