The Teacher
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Film description
The film is set in 2019, right before the introduction of the legislation legalizing same-sex marriages. Kevin is a young, popular teacher, openly expressing his support for the upcoming changes. It seems like he can do this freely, the society, too, is in favor. But the situation takes a drastically different turn when a rumor starts circling around the school, claiming that Kevin might be HIV positive.
This brilliantly played, nuanced drama about relationships put to the test and a fight for dignity is also a story of misunderstandings and miscommunications. The director shows more than just the complex social situation – the moment of historical change is not an idyllic process – but he also focuses on the protagonist’s relationship with his partner, his wife, and the mother he is still living with. The complex family constellations are the stage of the battle between honesty and the need to uphold appearances, between trust and betrayal, between the need for love and fearing for one’s job and everyday survival.
text:
Jagoda Murczyńska
Chen Ming-lang
Studied film at NYU, where he received the Ang Lee scholarship. His debut, "Tomorrow Comes Today" (2013) premiered at the Taipei Film Festival, and the script of the film received an award at Taiwan Ministry of Culture Department’s screenplay competition. His next film, "The Teacher," received two Golden Horse nominations.
2013 Ni de jintian he wo de mingtian / Tomorrow Comes Today
2019 Nauczyciel / Wo de linghun shi ai zuo de / The Teacher