In director Tsai Ming-Liang's shockingly subversive family drama, Hsiao-Kang gets roped into participating in a film shoot, in which he plays a dead body floating in the Tamsui River in Taipei. But the polluted, dirty water provokes a health crisis, as Hsiao-Kang is suddenly struck by debilitating neck pain. His concerned parents attempt various ways of alleviating his discomfort, but to no avail and soon, the son’s misery causes the troubled family unit to further disintegrate.

Unveiling domestic secrets and repressed emotions, this uncomfortable work of slow cinema offers a sly, queer critique of the nuclear family and the values it represents. Shot in Tsai’s signature minimalist style and starring his muse Lee Kang-Sheng, this controversial work repelled some audiences and confirmed the director’s place as a uniquely rebellious voice in queer cinema.

Presented in partnership with Queer East, The River was one of the highlights of the 2024 festival edition in April.

Our screening on 11 September was followed by an in-person q&a with the iconic actor and filmmaker Lee Kang-sheng.

Cast:
Lee Kang-sheng, Miao Tian, Lu Yi-ching, Chen Shiang-Chyi, Ann Hui