Embracing Letting Go in “The Last Dance”

How Do You Wish to Die?

This profound question is one that most people struggle to answer, as it ultimately lies beyond our control, regardless of how we envision it.?

Watching The Last Dance, a Hong Kong film, was a heavy yet enlightening experience. It delves into themes far beyond life and death, exploring family dynamics, gender inequality, and the difficulty of letting go when one reaches the end of their journey.?

A particularly poignant scene features a mother who cannot accept her son’s death. She keeps his body for nearly six months, finally finding someone who can fulfil her wish for closure. In a moment of reflection, the Taoist priest Man Kwok advises Dominic that, while it’s painful to face the reality of loss, moving on is essential. This message resonates strongly; embracing change is crucial. It reminds me of my late mother; even after more than a decade, her memory remains vivid.

Similarly, Man Kwok struggles to express his affection for his children, particularly his daughter, who feels unloved. This emotional disconnect stems from tradition, which dictates that only men can serve as Taoist priests. Tension arises when his son Ben decides to migrate to Australia for better education for his child, leaving his sister to care for their ailing father. Yuet perceives Ben’s actions as selfish, while Ben believes he is acting in the best interest of his family. Their conflict highlights a deeper question: is it necessary to let family dynamics reach such a breaking point?

In another instance of vulnerability, Dominic expresses gratitude to Man Kwok for their connection during a challenging time when he had to transition from wedding planning to working in a funeral business due to the pandemic. Similarly, Man Kwok conveys his gratitude in a letter, reflecting on how this experience helped him become a better father. His old-fashioned views had previously strained his relationship with his children.?

Watching this film prompted deep reflection. If there’s someone you haven’t spoken to in a while - be it an old friend or family member - take the initiative to reach out. You never know when it might be your last opportunity to connect. This film also raises important questions worth contemplating: when life is fleeting, do we really want to cling stubbornness or hold grudges? Life is a journey, and when it’s time to disembark, we must do so - willingly or not. Thus, is it worth arguing or dwelling on petty matters?

Life is inherently unpredictable. Instead of fearing the unknown or living cautiously, why not embrace the present and enjoy the journey? I encourage you to treat yourself and loved ones to a movie before bidding farewell to 2024.