Immerse yourself into the world of "Art College 1994," an animated Chinese college dorm rom-com. The movie, interestingly enough, portrays young people's fascination with their selves, showcasing a unique perspective of youngsters at a significant turning point in their lives - graduating college and realizing their insignificance in the upcoming world. Director and co-writer, Liu Jian, employs his affection for the young, impulsive characters to emphasize the tale of undergraduates and their pursuit for freedom and self-expression.
Consider "Art College 1994" as a symbolic time wrap, presenting that intriguing moment when young hearts believe they comprehend life before truly understanding it. Liu demonstrates a unique patience with his characters, whose stories interweave but don't necessarily progress linearly. He portrays a vivid picture of post-school life, budding romances, and youthful aspirations.
The film centers heavily on its characters' academic environment, reflecting their naïve understanding of what they desire on their own personal terms. The comedic bite lies in the absurdity of the art world and the young, naive enthusiasts swarming the space, exhibiting amusing rather than hilarious exchanges, and mirroring the film's lightly voiced dialogues.
A museum curator's confusing manifesto and a student's humorous attempt to tease a well-travelled artist with a somewhat Daoist question evokes a unique humor. The plot takes us through a roller coaster of romances pursued and annulled with a surprising frequency.
"Art College 1994" doesn't strive to build momentum; rather, it drifts along with its characters, highlighting the contextualizing details. The sparse ambient noise amplifies the "social realist" design intrinsic to Liu's characteristic visual style. The characters move across extravagant backgrounds bustling with eye-catching ornamental details. Despite its stylized, non-naturalistic approach, it encapsulates the students' lifestyle consumed by excessive drinking, philosophical ramblings, and prominent quotes from Fyodor Dostoevsky, James Joyce, and Pablo Picasso.
The film's humor is softened by its straightforward poetry and art-house friendly impressionistic details. The background music often abruptly cuts off, accompanying Yinjun as he ambles around the campus at night, illuminating the flickering halogen bulbs of the Casablanca Club.
"Art College 1994" offers a vivid portrayal of youth, their self-obsession, and the struggles of growing up. It acknowledges the beauty of a time when you're passionate about your future with a unique innocence and insular worldview. The movie isn't as much about nostalgia but about capturing and appreciating the fleeting phase when life's circumstances allow you to be the main subject, even if it was for a short while.
