Snow Flower and the Secret Fan 2011

In Snow Flower and the Secret Fan, directed by Wayne Wang, audiences are transported to the 19th century, revealing a narrative that unfolds across multiple time periods. At the heart of this tale are two girls, Snow Flower, who is born into wealth, and Lily, who comes from a humble background. Intriguingly, both girls enter the world on the same day and in the same year, establishing a profound connection between them.

Fast forward to the present day, we meet their descendants, Nina and Sophia, who reflect the same societal divides as their ancestors. Throughout both eras, the two pairs of girls form the bond of laotongs—an enduring connection akin to sisterhood. Through this relationship, they learn nu shu, a secret language crafted solely for women. Unfortunately, Nina and Sophia have yet to discover or embrace this unique means of communication.

As the narrative unfolds, the girls face separation, discover love, and grapple with societal restrictions that keep them apart. Nevertheless, the bond they share remains unbroken through the trials of time. Sophia has inherited ancient fans from their ancestors, while Nina stumbles upon some of these cherished artifacts. Additionally, Nina uncovers a book that Sophia has been writing about their forebears, which breathes life into the saga of Snow Flower and Lily.

The story reveals that Snow Flower has fallen from her privileged status after her father squanders their wealth on opium, leading her to marry a butcher, juxtaposed with Lily, who weds a prosperous man. This twist of fate highlights the fluidity of social classes throughout their experiences. A pivotal moment occurs when Sophia is struck by a car at the outset, leaving her in a state of unconsciousness until the climax. Tragically, Snow Flower meets her demise near the film’s conclusion, intertwining the beginning and the end. Both sequences poignantly reflect on the relentless pace of change in the world around them.

Overall, Snow Flower and the Secret Fan intricately mirrors the bonds of female friendship and the deep-rooted cultural traditions that shape their lives across generations.