Ilo Ilo

Ilo Ilo

Year: 2014

Runtime: 99 min

Language: English

Director: Anthony Chen

Drama

During the Asian financial crisis in 1997 Singapore, a family's life is upended by the arrival of Teresa, a Filipino nanny. As Teresa adjusts to her new role and cares for the energetic young Jiale, an unexpected connection develops between them. However, the family's newfound stability is threatened once again when economic hardship returns, challenging the bonds they’ve forged and the future they hoped for.

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Timeline & Setting – Ilo Ilo (2014)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Ilo Ilo (2014). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1997

The movie is set in 1997 during the Asian financial crisis, a period characterized by economic turmoil that affected many families across Southeast Asia. This crisis led to significant job losses, financial instability, and a shift in social dynamics as households grappled with the implications of recession. The Lim family's story mirrors the larger struggles of society during this challenging time.

Location

Singapore

Singapore serves as the backdrop for the Lim family's struggles, highlighting the challenges faced during the 1997 Asian financial crisis. Known for its rapid economic growth, the city-state is a melting pot of cultures, yet the narrative showcases the hidden difficulties behind its facade of prosperity. The Lim family's experiences reflect the broader social challenges of the time.

🏙️ City 🌏 Asia

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:26

Main Characters – Ilo Ilo (2014)

Meet the key characters of Ilo Ilo (2014), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Jiale

Jiale is a ten-year-old boy whose behavior reflects the turmoil surrounding him. Initially rebellious, he struggles to connect with Terry, the family's domestic helper, yet gradually forms a bond that challenges his understanding of family. His resourcefulness is evident in his obsession with lottery numbers, symbolizing his hope for a miraculous resolution to their struggles.

👦 Child 💭 Aspirational 🔍 Resourceful

Terry

Terry is the Filipina domestic helper who enters the Lim family's life during a time of crisis. Her character embodies resilience and empathy as she navigates her own hardships while caring for the family. Over time, she becomes a crucial figure in Jiale's life, playing a role that transcends her employment, yet faces the challenges of being an outsider in their family dynamic.

👩‍⚕️ Caregiver 🌍 Immigrant 💪 Resilient

Hwee Leng

Hwee Leng is the pregnant mother who grapples with the pressures of financial instability and her role as a caregiver. Her initial frustration towards Terry evolves as she confronts her family's challenges head-on. Her journey reflects a search for hope and empowerment amidst despair, ultimately leading to a pivotal moment of realization.

👩 Mother 😞 Frustrated 🌼 Seeking Hope

Teck

Teck, the father of the Lim family, embodies the struggles of a breadwinner in a declining economy. His attempts to shield his family from the harsh realities of their financial situation lead to increased tension within the household. As he faces job loss and shame, his character highlights the burden of responsibility that many feel during economic hardship.

👨 Father 📉 Unemployed 😔 Burdened

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:26

Major Themes – Ilo Ilo (2014)

Explore the central themes of Ilo Ilo (2014), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Family Struggles

The theme of family struggles is central to the narrative, showcasing the impact of financial hardship on relationships. As the Lim family navigates their economic woes, tensions rise among family members, highlighting the emotional turmoil that often accompanies financial instability. The bond between Jiale and his mother grows increasingly strained, reflecting the struggles faced by many families during times of crisis.

🤝 Unexpected Connections

An unexpected connection develops between Jiale and Terry, illustrating the complexities of human relationships against a backdrop of adversity. Their evolving bond challenges traditional familial roles and reveals the profound impact of empathy and understanding. As they navigate their individual struggles, they find solace in each other's company, transcending the barriers that initially separated them.

🎟️ Hope and Despair

Hope and despair are intricately woven throughout the film, embodied in the Lim family's relentless pursuit of a better life. Jiale's obsession with lottery numbers signifies his longing for a miraculous escape from their dire financial situation. However, the narrative reminds viewers of the harsh realities of life, as dreams often clash with bitter truths, culminating in moments of vulnerability and heartbreak.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:26

Unlock the Full Story of Ilo Ilo

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Ilo Ilo Summary

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Ilo Ilo Summary

Ilo Ilo Timeline

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Ilo Ilo Timeline

More About Ilo Ilo

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More About Ilo Ilo

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