Nü er jing: A Shanghai Reunion That Lingers

Is this for you?

If you have the patience for a film that just lets people talk, you’ll probably find something to love here. It isn't a blockbuster, and it doesn't try to be. But if you’re looking for a fast-paced thriller or something that spells out its themes in neon letters, stay away. This is for the folks who like to watch people just… be.

The whole premise of Nü er jing is deceptively simple. A hostess brings her old schoolmates together in Shanghai. You know how these things go—the polite smiles, the hidden jealousies, the "oh, look how well you're doing" comments that have a little bit of sharp teeth behind them.

The rhythm of the room

I found myself watching the background extras more than I probably should have. There’s this one moment where someone is pouring tea, and the hand just shakes ever so slightly. It’s such a tiny, human detail that makes the whole scene feel real. It reminds me a bit of the quiet domestic tension in The Apple-Tree Girl, though the vibes are entirely different.

Some of these women have clearly had a rough go of it. Others? They’re doing fine. The movie doesn't lean into the drama too hard, though. It just lets the facts sit there in the air.

Oddly specific observations

• The lighting in the reunion hall is surprisingly moody. It feels less like a party and more like a confessional.
• The way one character clutches her purse for the entire first act—she is not comfortable.
• There’s a long silence after someone mentions their marriage that felt like it lasted five minutes. It was almost painful.

The film shifts gears when it touches on the women who contributed to the country. It feels a bit like a pivot, maybe a bit clunky, but it’s interesting how the tone changes from personal gossip to something much broader. It’s not as slick as Kansas City Princess, but it has a soul that feels surprisingly heavy.

Final thoughts

It’s not perfect. Sometimes the dialogue feels like it’s waiting for the camera to catch up. But I didn't mind. There's a specific texture to these old Shanghai stories that feels like looking through a dusty window.

It’s a movie that doesn't care if you like it. It just tells its story and moves on. That’s rare enough these days. 🎞️