Written and directed by leading actress Jia Ling, co-written by Sun Jibin, Guo Yupeng, Bu Yu and Liu Honglu. Le Ying (Ling) has stayed at home for many years doing nothing, withdrawn from society. One day, she meets boxing coach Hao Kun and just when she thought her life was about to get on the right track, life tests her again. Also starring: Lei Jiayin, Zhang Xiaofei, Yang Zi, Yi Sha, Qiao Shan, Li Xueqin, Ma Li, Zhao Haiyan and Zhang Qi.
One of the most interesting things about Yolo is how easily it can be misinterpreted, and viewers can focus on the negative representations of society. It’s quite a typical occurrence for films that deal with issues like self-esteem and confidence, especially when it’s tied to weight. It’s a shame really that people might walk away thinking that Jia Ling’s message is fatphobic or misogynist, that women are only beautiful when they’re thin, when that’s so far from what it’s really saying. Ling is telling a very relatable story of how life can treat you like you’re worthless, but nothing will change, until you change it.
It holds a realism in the way it shows how judgemental and manipulative society can be, especially to those it views as weak, but then Yolo can also be a little overtly positive as the tone shifts. In that sense, it follows a lot of the classic comedic themes, as well as including the quintessential training montage, which is always fun. It can play itself out a bit too slowly at times, and probably have shaved a little off the run time to tighten up but it’s still an enjoyable watch. Especially in that Ling’s directorial style adds some interesting choices of angles and timeline, playing with perspective and the information she gives her audience, adding a bit more variety than your average comedy-drama.
You also can’t deny how much Jia Ling committed to this film, not only with the performance and directing but also with her physical transformation, with each element bringing its own challenges. Within all three she does a wonderful job of portraying how confidence comes from within, rejecting how society sees you and just embracing your own strengths and dedication. Again, it’s not whether or not she loses the weight, it’s that she takes control of her life and how she’ll allow people to treat her. Ling also adds a very lovely end credits sequence of behind the scenes footage, which is a nice bonus.
The rest of the cast are also excellent, each creating people who are flawed in their own way and have a negative influence upon Le Ying. There’s an interesting mix of different characters and a lot of them really help to push the comedic side of the story. The ensemble as a whole do really well to hit the right balance between comedy and drama. They bring a little bit of playfulness to the atmosphere, when it can be heavy at times, especially when Le Ying is at her lowest.
Yolo may stretch itself a little thin towards the end, pushing its runtime further than it needed to, but it’s an entertaining affair. It’s a great highlight on how society can push people to be blind to their own capabilities, when they’re constantly told they’re useless. Not everything is smooth sailing but it has wonderful intentions, a great message about trying new things and building confidence and an excellent cast. A great film for some relaxed, evening viewing.
FilmCarnage.com 