Shanghai Story

"Shanghai Story," directed by Andrej Iliev, is an evocative journey through the vibrant and chaotic streets of modern Shanghai. Starring Emilie Ohana and Drago Lazetich, the film explores the unexpected bond between a troubled product copywriter and a mysterious woman.

This is a small indie film, so don't expect sweeping drone shots or big set pieces. That being said, the film is shot beautifully, showcasing quite a bit of Shanghai, both during the day and at night with its neon lights and rich vibrant colors.

The chemistry between the two leads is solid, and the rapport between them is enjoyable. The script had me chuckling a few times, although the film struggles at times with pacing and occasionally falls into predictable tropes.

Despite its flaws, strong performances and a visually rich setting make "Shanghai Story" a compelling watch for those interested in character-driven narratives. It has a calming and nostalgic feel to it and reminding me of the beauty in everyday connections. Recommended.

This must have been shot pre-lockdown, because I can see them riding Mobikes and Ofo bikes, which don't exist anymore. Nice little flick, kind of reminds me of the 'Before Sunrise' movies. Not as good, though. Some scenes are weird, some are thoughtful and beautiful, there's a lot of fun dialogue and the performances and camera are all good. It's a super simple story of and encounter between two strangers, but there are some other elements and some twists to it that make it a little different. The music was a stand out to me, it's really diverse and holds it together. Jazzy tunes are such a great fit for Shanghai. And Shanghai looks so good!

If you like these kind of movies check it out.

If you're into "walk and talk" movies like Before Sunrise or looking for something set in an exotic location like Lost in Translation, you should consider giving this a try.

Even thought it is a smaller budget entry with an unknown cast and it doesn't quite hit the emotional highs of its predecessors, Shanghai Story nicely captures the essence of spontaneous conversations and the magic of exploring a city with someone new.

The cinematography is lovely and immerses you in a vibrant, bustling metropolis where every street and alleyway tells a story.

The performances are strong, and the chemistry between the two main actors feels genuine. Ohana's portrayal is particularly nuanced and authentic, and her ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety enhances the film's exploration of human connection.

Shanghai Story is about those fleeting yet profound moments that can change your perspective on life. It's definitely not for everyone, but if you like these types of films, this is a good pick for anyone who loves getting lost in both a city and a conversation.