Film Review: The Lyricist Wannabe 填詞L (2024) Hong Kong 🇭🇰
Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia 🇦🇺)
Following her directorial debut of the underrated “My Prince Edward”, best new director Norris Wong followed up with a heartfelt and emotionally charged semi autobiographical film “The Lyricist Wannabe” (on her own experiences) about a struggling and aspiring lyricist roaming thru the complicated world of music. Largely self funded, Wong manages to be true to herself as the film deals with relevant issues on dreams, aspiration, reality and expectations all wrapped up within a coming of age premises that feels locally fresh.
Talented actress Chung Suet Ying plays the titled character and after an impressive display in “Time”, Chung matures to take on the leading role and oozes with plenty of on-screen charisma. Being easily likeable, Chung knows what is required for the role of a struggling and aspiring artist as she goes through one obstacle after another. Eric Kot is always good when dramatic performance is required, meanwhile Chu Pak Hong simply chews sceneries as the lyricist teacher that unlikely inspires Chung.
All in all, “The Lyricist Wannabe” is a lovely little gem of a film that evokes all the right emotions and if you look closely there are plenty of relatable moments that will bring you to tears. The beauty of this film by Norris Wong is the honest interpretations, the genuine feelings and most importantly reminding us of our own dreams and aspirations and why we choose to do it.
I rated it 8/10