Tuya’s Marriage (2007)
Tuya’s Marriage (2007) 8/10
2007 Berlin International Film Festival:
Golden Berlin Bear
Prize of the Ecumenical Jury
Tuya’s Marriage is the sort of low key arthouse film that would normally have gone unnoticed by most people if it did not score a surprise win at the 57th Berlin Film Festival. Winner of the prestigious Golden Bear, Tuya’s Marriage as its name suggests is about Tuya’s (Yu Nan) quest to get married. At its heart, it is a sometimes funny, sometimes sad ’slice of life’ life that showcases the life and environs of Mongolia. From the rustic and beautifully shot scenery to the strong cast performance, Tuya’s Marriage is a worthy winner and an excellent Mainland Chinese film.
The only possible quibble is that the plotline is too predictable and the director’s dubious choice of interposing an ending scene near the beginning of the film. It was an unnecessary technique that did not add much to the film. Nevertheless, Tuya’s Marriage is a well crafted tale that deserves to be seen.
