If we look at Wong Kar-wai’s films, it is easy to find that they are generally in a rather distinct style. Dream-like atmospheres, spare in dialogue and the display of unspoken feelings all contribute to Wong Kar-wai’s unique style. Not following conventions, Wong Kar-wai’s films focus more on modern aesthetics rather than story telling. When I first watched his film Chungking Express, I felt lost after the end of the film, but visually satisfied with all those artistic scenes.
When I asked the question about how Wong Kar-wai’s personal style influence the architectural setting, I was surprised that Carman Liu’s answer was “not much”. However, she later mentioned William Chang, who actually contributes to all the artistic settings. I come up with this idea that if the artistic style makes Wong Kar-wai’s film, does it mean it is William Chang who makes Wong Kar-wai.
William Chang has been in charge of art design in every Wong Kar-wai’s film. From As Tears Go By to The Grandmaster, the aesthetic value of the films are outstanding. In my opinion, the insufficiency of dialogues and story line actually makes the artistic value even more outstanding. There are criticisms from the public at Wong Kar-wai’s films for they lack of conventional film script. However, if we evaluate them from an artistic perspective, Wong’s films are definitely master pieces. No matter which moment you stop the film, the picture is magnificent and pleasing, just like a piece of art. From this point of view, art actually makes the film.
However, I find it surprising and interesting that William Chang’s recent film designs do not receive praises from the public. A lot of his designs in recent series are criticized as poor and wired. This makes me think about how Wong’s unique style of improvisation is indispensable to William’s design.
It is said that The Grandmaster takes 8 years to produce. Thinking of nowadays films, most of them are highly commercial and their production periods are as short as possible. As a result, I hardly see any scene that can be considered artistic.
Art can make a film, but it is a pity that there are few Wong Kar-wais at this commercial age.
By Guo Yuhui (3035533874)