AFTER YANG

2021 / 96 min / color

Jake runs an organic tea shop and leads a happy, peaceful life with his wife Kyra and their daughter Mika. An android named Yang is always with them, looking after Mika like an older brother. When he unexpectedly breaks down, Jake gets to work trying to find a way to bring him back to life, but in the process he makes a discovery that stuns the whole family. All these years, the android has had a private life of his own, and recorded his most precious moments on a secret hard drive. By exploring these treasured memories, Jake discovers who Yang really was, what he dreamed of, and how he felt while he lived with them for all that time. Directed by Kogonada under the auspices of A24, After Yang is considered one of the most original sci-fi films of recent years. Enthusiastic reviews after the Cannes premiere used terms like “contemplative,” “minimalist,” and “subdued.” Not surprising, as thoughtful reflection and an in-depth contemplation of human existence are much more important to the Korean-American director than a flashy vision of the future. Yang is also another interesting choice in the acting career of Colin Farrell, who plays the lead role.

• Sundance Film Festival – Alfred P. Sloan Prize