★★★1/2

A movie somehow both brave and restrained, I Miss You When I See You tells the story of Kevin (Jun Li), a depressed 20-something who relocates from Australia to Hong Kong, reconnecting with his former best friend from secondary school, Jamie (Bryant Ji-Lok Mak).

With Jamie dating Elaine (Candy Cheung), Kevin, who is gay, must remain closeted and attempt to live a heterosexual lifestyle, as his culture remains unaccepting of gay people.

Writer and director Simon Chung’s film veers in and out of melodrama to relay some powerful observations and emotional sequences, crafting a story full of frustration, sadness, and a glimmering hope that Jamie will find a way out of his darkness and live in the light.

Well-acted and topical, this is a movie made with purpose and importance, delivering a satisfying final scene and image that makes the journey of Kevin well worth the time.

Starring: Jun Li, Bryant Ji-Lok Mak, Candy Cheung
Director: Simon Chung
Running Time: 93 MInutes

SIFF SHOWTIMES:
May 18 | SIFF Cinema Uptown | 6:00 PM
May 19 | SIFF Cinema Uptown | 2:30 PM