Aftershock (2010)

Director: Xiaogang Feng

Starring: Daoming Chen, Chen Li, Yi Lu

The epic story of a family separated as a result of the Great Tangshan Earthquake of 1976.

I expected a disaster film of ‘epic proportions’, as the media stated, but this was a family drama instead. Despite this, I enjoyed the film and thought it was absolutely brilliant. Where do I actually start with how good it was? I understand now, the film is not about the earthquake, but about the ‘aftershock’ of the earthquake – used figuratively. This is about a family torn apart by one of nature’s most devastating disasters. (In fact, the Tangshan earthquake of 1976 was the third most devastating earthquake in history).

The film beautifully captures how one’s ordinary existence  can turn to chaos within a matter of seconds. The acting was superb and the visual effects when the earthquake hit was some of the most impressive I’ve seen. It showed how brutal and deadly an earthquake really can be. From there the film was emotional and tugged at the heart strings. It was a beautiful depiction of loss, love and keeping memories alive, and a mother’s grief that lasted more than three decades.

If you’re into disaster films, you might not appreciate the film, but if you’re into drama movies, this is perfect. The film was an enormous box office and critical success, winning 20 Awards and earning more than $100 million.

In Mandarin.