Overview
John Woo's melodramatic tragicomedy The Time You Need a Friend (1985) stands at the crucial crossroads in the director's career. Woo had been churning out innocuous comedies for more than a few years, and after establishing the "heroic bloodshed" genre, he'd never look back. But this tale of two comedians - estranged former pals who bury the hatchet for one last show together - blends the pathos and male-bonding of Woo's later dramas with the silliness and pratfalls that marked his early works. At their peak, Ku Ren and Shem Bien were an unstoppable screen comedy team, the undisputed stars of the silent era. But a major falling out has kept the duo offstage for decades. Despite the urgings of family and friends, Ku and Shem refuse to reconcile. As both men approach their twilight years, one last chance for a reunion presents itself in the form of a televised charity benefit. Ku Ren and Shem Bien struggle to come to terms with years of bitterness, and bring the house down once again.
Frequently Asked Questions & Story Details
Who directed The Time You Need a Friend?
The Time You Need a Friend was directed by John Woo.
Where was The Time You Need a Friend produced?
It was produced by companies including Unknown Production Companies in Hong Kong, Taiwan.
The Time You Need a Friend Ending Explained & Trivia
The ending of The Time You Need a Friend wraps up key thematic points regarding its characters. The film showcases excellent use of sound design, writing, and visual effects to create an immersive cinematic environment. For full analysis of ending theories, you can check out our corresponding articles in the Lumaflicks Blog section.
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