Three Seasons

Watch Three Seasons

"The war is over. But a personal battle continues to rage."
  • PG-13
  • 1999
  • 1 hr 53 min
  • 7.2  (3,264)

Three Seasons is a Vietnamese film directed by Tony Bui and released in 1999. The story is set in Ho Chi Minh City, the largest and most modern city in Vietnam, and follows the lives of several characters whose paths cross over the course of the movie. Through their stories, the film explores themes of love, loss, and the struggle to adapt to a rapidly changing society.

The film is divided into three separate but interconnected stories. The first story, titled "The Lotus," follows the life of a cyclo driver named Hai. Cyclos are three-wheeled bicycle taxis commonly found in Vietnam, and they play an important role in the country's economy. Hai is a gentle and kind-hearted man who takes pride in his work, but he is struggling to make ends meet in a city that is changing rapidly. One day, he meets a young prostitute named Lan who is working to support her young daughter. Through their interactions, Hai starts to see the beauty in the world around him and finds a new sense of purpose.

The second story, titled "The Rain," focuses on the life of a young girl named Kien An who works in a lotus pond. When she meets a rich American businessman named James, she becomes fascinated by his stories of a distant land and dreams of traveling beyond the boundaries of her own life. However, as Kien An's world begins to crumble around her, she realizes that the beauty of dreams can be fleeting.

The third and final story, titled "The Bar," follows the life of a poet named Woody who is haunted by memories of the past. Woody is drawn to a young prostitute named Lan who he hopes can offer him a way to escape his pain. However, as he spends more time in the bar, he realizes that he is not the only one searching for a way out, and he must confront the reality of his situation.

Throughout the film, the characters' stories intertwine in unexpected ways, highlighting the interconnectedness of life in a rapidly changing city. Along the way, the film offers a glimpse into the complex cultural landscape of Vietnam, where traditions clash with modernization, and hope and despair exist side by side.

One of the standout features of Three Seasons is its beautiful cinematography, which captures the beauty and chaos of life in Ho Chi Minh City. From the tranquil lotus ponds to the bustling streets filled with motorbikes and cyclos, the film paints a vivid portrait of a city in transition. The movie is also notable for its use of music and poetry, which provide a lyrical counterpoint to the stark realities of the characters' lives.

Overall, Three Seasons is a poignant and thought-provoking film that offers a unique glimpse into the human experience in Vietnam. With its powerful performances, beautiful cinematography, and deep themes, it is a must-see for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of life in a rapidly changing world.

Three Seasons
Three Seasons doesn't appear to be available from any streaming services.
Add this movie to your Watchlist to get notified when it's available.
Description
  • Release Date
    1999
  • MPAA Rating
    PG-13
  • Runtime
    1 hr 53 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    7.2  (3,264)
Watch all of
Do you have Hulu?
Ad Info - This movie may not be available on Hulu
No thanks, I'm not interested in Hulu