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Exploring Love and Loss in Ray Yeung’s “All Shall Be Well”

by Barbara

The sanctity of truly knowing a loved one is a profound experience. It fosters a sense of pride in understanding their preferences and thoughts, often better than they do themselves. However, what happens when that certainty is challenged, and external forces disrupt a bond that has been nurtured over time? These complex themes are artfully explored in Ray Yeung’s film, “All Shall Be Well.”

The narrative centers on Angie (Patra Au Ga Man) and her partner Pat (Maggie Li Lin-Lin), who have shared a deep bond for over 30 years. They have cultivated a peaceful life in Hong Kong, away from Angie’s parents, who question the legitimacy of their relationship. In contrast, Pat’s extended family supports them, with her nephew and niece affectionately referring to Angie as “Aunt.” However, the landscape shifts dramatically following Pat’s sudden passing, revealing the true colors of those who once embraced Angie.

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From the outset, Yeung emphasizes the delicate beauty of Angie and Pat’s relationship. Before delving into family dynamics, the film immerses viewers in a day in their lives. The couple’s rituals—brewing tea together, sharing meals in quiet contentment, and helping each other with makeup—establish the spiritual connection they share. The chemistry between Au and Li is palpable, underscoring the depth of their characters’ bond. This connection makes Angie’s poignant solo journey after Pat’s death all the more heart-wrenching as she grapples with loneliness, transitioning from shared moments to solitary routines.

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The absence of a will complicates matters when it comes to Pat’s final wishes. Although she had expressed a desire for a sea burial, coroner Master Yu (Jimmy Wong Wa-Wo) informs the family that, based on her lunar birthday, cremation is necessary. The family’s quick compliance reveals a troubling apathy towards Pat’s desires, which intensifies when they learn that fulfilling Pat’s wishes could lead to financial gain for the family. This moral dilemma forces viewers to reflect on their own values, weighing the worth of honoring Pat’s wishes against the potential benefits for her family.

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The stakes rise further as Angie’s living situation is jeopardized. Without a will, Pat’s brother, Shing (Tai Bo), inherits everything, including the flat where Angie had envisioned spending her future. While it may be tempting to label Shing as selfish, the film reveals a more nuanced perspective. Shing and his wife, Mei (Hui Siu-Ying), face a suffocating financial situation, struggling to support their family in a cramped apartment. When their son’s changing circumstances necessitate his own living space, Shing’s actions are contextualized, prompting the audience to reconsider their judgments.

While Shing and Mei are not painted as clear antagonists, Angie finds support in a small group of family friends who rally around her during this tumultuous time. Their presence emphasizes the importance of chosen family, a theme that enriches the narrative. Although these relationships could be explored further, the warmth brought by this group highlights the significance of community in overcoming adversity.

“All Shall Be Well” is a poignant, unvarnished film that addresses the struggle for one’s voice amid external pressures. Its quiet, melancholic tone resonates deeply, providing a relatable experience that stands in contrast to more explosive cinematic confrontations. In a lineup filled with intense dramas like “Longlegs” and “Challengers,” Yeung’s film offers a much-needed heartbeat, reminding audiences of the subtle yet powerful nature of love and loss.

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