RATING★ 6.0
WORTH IT? MAYBE
Life Must Go On backdrop
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Expert Review & Ratings

See our full critical analysis and audience score for Life Must Go On.

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WORTH WATCHING: MIXED
Editorial Verified

Is Life Must Go On Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2022)

When her “midnight gymnasium” program for wayward teens is under the threat of being defunded, social worker Yanki puts together a dodgeball team to save it. With the help of an unemployed, has-been star jock as the coach, the motley crew of teen girls learn that dodging from their problems can work temporarily, but they must learn to eventually stand back up and overcome their challenges.

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✨ The Quick Verdict

ONE-TIME WATCH

If you are a fan of Comedy, Drama cinema, then Life Must Go On offers a standard experience that justifies its existence in the 2022 landscape.

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👥 Target Audience

Fans of Comedy films
Fans of Drama films

📔 Detailed Analysis

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Life Must Go On, a standout production of 2022, meticulously weaves its narrative threads through the Comedy, Drama landscape, offering a cinematic experience that is as challenging as it is rewarding. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into When her “midnight gymnasium” program for wayward teens is under the threat of being defunded, social worker Yanki puts together a dodgeball team to save it. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Comedy, Drama are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "When her “midnight gymnasium” program for wayward teens is under the threat of being defunded, social worker Yanki puts together a dodgeball team to save it. With the help of an unemployed, has-been star jock as the coach, the motley crew of teen girls learn that dodging from their problems can work temporarily, but they must learn to eventually stand back up and overcome their challenges."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. In Life Must Go On, we see Ekin Cheng utilizing their established screen presence to carry the story forward. It is a solid, workmanlike performance that serves the director's vision without overshadowing the larger narrative goals.

The direction by Ying Chi-Wen is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 93 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Life Must Go On truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Comedy, Drama, then this is a highly recommended entry that delivers on its promises while offering a few surprises along the way.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 6/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Life Must Go On explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2022 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Ying Chi-Wen respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Life Must Go On serves as a reliable piece of entertainment that will satisfy core fans while providing a solid entry point for new viewers. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Ekin Cheng or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Life Must Go On is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.

Official movieMx Verdict: RECOMMENDED - QUALITY CINEMA

⏳ Time Investment

93MIN

At approximately 1.6 hours, the film requires a standard time commitment.

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