Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Anthony Chen's Film Explores Family, Love, and Conformity

2/20/2026

22 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Anthony Chen, the Singaporean director, returns to a family drama echoing Ilo Ilo.
The story follows Junyang, a carefree young man living with his widowed father Boon Kiat.
After military service, Junyang faces pressure from his girlfriend Lydia, who becomes pregnant after a lavish night at Marina Bay Sands.
The film critiques Singapore's conformism and wealth obsession while employing humor to depict the romantic crises in both father and son.

1 of 1

Story summary

Anthony Chen, the Singaporean director, returns to a family drama echoing Ilo Ilo.
The story follows Junyang, a carefree young man living with his widowed father Boon Kiat.
After military service, Junyang faces pressure from his girlfriend Lydia, who becomes pregnant after a lavish night at Marina Bay Sands.
The film critiques Singapore's conformism and wealth obsession while employing humor to depict the romantic crises in both father and son.