Lunar New Year Splash 2025 presented five films from Asia, all centered on the theme of family, to welcome the Year of the Snake—and I actually watched all five. After the screening of Granny Must Die, there was a virtual Q&A with the director, which I recorded. Chen Yi-Jung, a Taiwanese filmmaker, spoke in Mandarin, with an on-site interpreter providing translation.
Synopsis of Granny Must Die (from VIFF):
An absurd comedy about the daily life of a three-generational Hakka household in Taipei. Huichiao, her grandmother Chunmei, Chunmei’s son Fusang, and daughter-in-law Lichun live together in a three-generational household in Taipei. The story begins on a stormy night when Huichiao quietly approaches and kills the sleeping Chunmei: “Granny, just die!”
Their conflict stems not only from daily trivialities but also from past memories and complex family relationships. Fusang, the silent and steady member of the family, tries to mediate the disputes among his mother, wife, and daughter, feeling powerless amidst the constant bickering. Meanwhile, Huichiao’s relationship with her colleague A-jie gradually comes to light. A-jie’s seemingly accidental presence triggers a series of events, raising suspicions about everyone’s motives and true intentions.
Through multiple perspectives and intertwined timelines, the film delves into this quirky family, uncovering each member’s secrets and sorrows, leading to a dramatic escape where the truth finally emerges.
Director Statement: Living in Taiwan’s multicultural society, we often face conflicts between traditional and modern values. Each character in the film carries fragments and emotions from real life. Their stories might seem absurd, but behind the laughter lies a profound reflection of reality. I hope the audience can not only smile through this film but also join us in exploring the meaning of family and self-discovery through the laughter.
