4/5 stars

Ann Hui’s Hong Kong film A Simple Life details the poignant relationship between an elderly maid and her professional middle-aged employer whom she has raised since his infancy. Ah Tao (Deannie Yip) continues her service to Roger (Andy Lau) – the only remaining member of the Leung family still living in Hong Kong – until she suffers a stroke leaving her incapacitated and in need of a care home. Unable to accomplish the most elementary tasks, Roger appears as vulnerable as Ah Tao, and as a consequence begins to realise how much he took his relationship with his lifelong subordinate for granted. With regular visits to the care home, their monotonous relationship blooms into something greater.

As an in-depth character study with minimal dialogue and action the film won’t appeal to audiences seeking a drama filled narrative. Patience is essential due to the films lengthy running time, though rewarded with the subtle interaction between the two central characters, evidently made possible by the outstanding leading performances.

The film’s ability to critique contemporary Hong Kong social attitudes towards the elderly is both necessary and well received; it is not surprising to understand that the story is based on the personal experiences of producer and co-writer Yan-lam Lee.

Shot with minimal cinematic effect in order to develop a sense of realism, the film makes use of handheld camerawork and frequently observes the characters from an estranged and unsympathetic distance. Accompanying the raw sentiment is a melancholic piano soundtrack that intensifies the narrative’s sombre disposition; however the film never delves into the melodramatic, and with its use of playful humour adds a discerning charm.

A worthy and significant addition to Hong Kong national cinema, A Simple Life captivates its audience with its humanist sensibility, and is remembered well after the credits roll.

Tomas Badger