‘Bound in Heaven’ Review: Ni Ni and Zhou You Make the Most of a Doomed Romance in Exuberant Drama

As a seasoned movie critic with a penchant for films that delve deep into human emotions and relationships, I must say “Bound in Heaven” left me spellbound! The raw, passionate romance between Xia You (Ni Ni) and Xu Zitai (Zhou You) is a testament to the power of love, set against the backdrop of an impending doom.

In “Bound in Heaven,” the connection between Xia You (Ni Ni) and Xu Zitai (Zhou You) is so intense that they don’t even bother to exchange names until after spending a night together. Such details might seem insignificant in Huo Xin’s passionate adaptation of Li Xiuwen’s novel, but passion takes precedence over everything else – both on screen and behind it. This is a promising directorial debut for the veteran screenwriter, who views a doomed romance as a chance to create an energetic drama. The central duo lives each day as if it were their last.

Any given day might be just another one for Xu, a noodle shop owner in Wuhan, as he anticipates the end of his relationship, due to a terminal illness. Financial constraints make it impossible for him to seek treatment or even a proper diagnosis. In an attempt to earn some money, he initially encounters Xia by selling concert tickets, which she yearns to attend, featuring Faye Wong. Their encounter outside the venue doesn’t seem promising, as he barely acknowledges her presence. However, his familiarity with the city allows him to make a romantic gesture that surpasses the ordinary, by finding a vantage point where he lifts her up on his shoulders to enjoy the view.

Moments like this, which might seem ordinary, are beautifully poignant under Huo’s unique lighting, repeatedly showcasing an aptitude for portraying love’s subtle transformations of the mundane. Collaborating with cinematographer Piao Songri, the film captures a visual dynamism that mirrors its fast-paced narrative as it spans a decade.

The imagery is as intense as the relationship. Scenes where Xu and Xiu speak to one another in quiet conspiratorial whispers are as lively as the ones in which they want to tear each other’s clothes off. The sex proves less vulnerable than Xiu’s meeting Xu’s family in rural China, a visit that isn’t warmly received by his parents.

Xiu has left behind a past she’d rather forget, having broken free from the grip of an abusive partner (Liao Fan). The likelihood of his return is as certain as the approach of death for Xu. This shared history gives them both a reason to live boldly in their time together, despite the high risks they take, which might make onlookers cringe at times when their passionate displays border on excessive. The film “Bound in Heaven” could be seen as pushing boundaries in this regard, similar to Blake Lively’s recent movie hit “It Ends With Us.” There’s an element of peril in Huo’s film that might appeal, given the conventional nature of romance films. However, this danger comes with a good deal of violence, not only in Xiu’s past relationship with her abusive fiancé, but also in her present relationship with Xu.

In a narrative dominated by emotion, “Bound in Heaven” presents its characters primarily through their social standing, as Xiu finds himself caught between wealthy and humble suitors. However, Ni and Zhou manage to infuse depth into their roles, creating an enthralling romantic duo. The director Huo, known for his collaborations with Zhang Yang (“Shower”) and Stephen Chow (“Kung Fu Hustle”), blends the energy of an action film with a romantic storyline. This fusion takes us beyond the familiar territories of our protagonists, sometimes resulting in a chaotic blend but generally showcasing each character’s best qualities.

2024-09-17 00:47

‘Bound in Heaven’ Review: Ni Ni and Zhou You Make the Most of a Doomed Romance in Exuberant Drama

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