Better Days by Derek Tsang: A Tale of Bullying, Friendship, and Redemption

Main Cast and Crew:

• Director: Derek Tsang
• Writers: Lam Wing Sum, Li Yuan, Xu Yimeng
• Key Actors: Zhou Dongyu as Chen Nian, Jackson Yee as Xiao Bei, Huang Jue as Zhang Jing
• Music Director: Varqa Buehrer
• Director of Photography: Yu Jing Pin
• Producers: Xu Yuezhen, Jojo Hui Yuet-chun

Better Days is a powerful coming-of-age drama directed by Derek Tsang. Set in modern-day China, the film explores the themes of bullying, friendship, and redemption through the eyes of two teenagers, Chen Nian and Xiao Bei.

Chen Nian, brilliantly portrayed by Zhou Dongyu, is a high school student who faces relentless bullying from her classmates. She is an introverted and studious girl, determined to succeed academically despite the constant torment. One day, she crosses paths with Xiao Bei, played by Jackson Yee, a street-smart and rebellious young man. As their unlikely friendship blossoms, they find solace in each other’s company, providing a much-needed escape from their troubled lives.

The plot takes a gripping turn when a classmate commits suicide after being bullied. Chen Nian and Xiao Bei become entangled in the investigation, as they try to uncover the truth behind the tragedy. As they delve deeper into the dark underbelly of their school, they face numerous challenges and threats, testing the strength of their friendship.

The film masterfully explores the consequences of bullying, shedding light on the emotional and psychological toll it takes on its victims. It delves into the complexities of human nature, highlighting the blurred lines between right and wrong, and the lengths people will go to protect themselves.

One of the central themes of Better Days is the search for identity and the struggle to find one’s place in a harsh and unforgiving world. Both Chen Nian and Xiao Bei are outsiders, yearning for acceptance and understanding. Their journey towards self-discovery is both heart-wrenching and inspiring, as they navigate through the challenges of adolescence and confront their own demons.

Upon its release, Better Days received critical acclaim and was praised for its poignant storytelling and exceptional performances. The film won the Best Feature Film award at the 39th Hong Kong Film Awards and was nominated for the Palme d’Or at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival. Its realistic portrayal of bullying struck a chord with audiences worldwide, sparking important conversations about the issue.

This thought-provoking film serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of our actions and the importance of compassion and empathy. It sheds light on the often-overlooked issue of bullying and encourages viewers to stand up against injustice.

Recommendation: Better Days is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates compelling storytelling and powerful performances. It offers a raw and honest portrayal of the harsh realities faced by many young people today. The film’s exploration of bullying and its consequences makes it a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant experience.

Memorable Quote: “We all have our own scars, but they don’t define us.”