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TV

Unrealistic but Necessary

Earlier, when I wrote about the Chinese drama Big Mother’s World, I mentioned, “the more diverse the portrayal of the elderly on the screen, the better.” Recently, Yanni’s role as “Grandma” showcases a commendable shift from the world of “Big Mothers” to the realm of “Grandma’s New World.” This drama is adapted from the comic book “Grandma’s Elopement” by Kuang Fuyao.

The numerous non-verbal monologues of the narrator and the complex story structure imbue the already eccentric plot with a touch of grandiosity. But if you persevere, you’ll uncover its unique charm.

For a long time, middle-aged and elderly women have been portrayed as mere family members in Chinese dramas. However, when Yanni chooses to leave without bidding goodbye, she evolves from a mere relationship label into an individual in her own right. She not only witnesses the ups and downs of the world but also emerges as a pivotal character in the narrative.

Naturally, it might seem improbable for a grandmother who has eloped and been interrogated multiple times to continue her journey. But this situation isn’t merely a whimsical fabrication—it stands as a powerful testament to the alternative paths life can present.

It might not reflect reality, but it’s undeniably compelling. Let’s term it a legend.