In the Mood for Love

In 1962, amidst the vibrant backdrop of British Hong Kong, two Shanghainese expatriates find themselves living in adjoining apartments. Chow Mo-wan, a dedicated journalist, and Su Li-zhen (Mrs. Chan), a hardworking secretary at a shipping company, share more than just close quarters; they both endure the absence of spouses who are frequently caught up in their work. The meddlesome yet welcoming presence of their landlady, Mrs. Suen, along with their lively mahjong-playing neighbors, often leaves Chow and Su to their own devices.

Initially, their interactions are minimal and built out of necessity. However, the situation takes a turn as they uncover the shocking truth: their spouses are entangled in a romantic affair. This revelation pulls them closer, sparking an idea to retrace how the affair began. In a moment of artistic collaboration, Chow invites Su to join him in writing a martial arts serial. As they embark on this creative journey, their growing connection does not go unnoticed, prompting Chow to book a secluded hotel room for their work.

As hours turn into days, they gradually confront the undeniable feelings developing between them. When an opportunity arises for Chow to take a job in Singapore, he reaches out to Su, hoping she will join him. Unfortunately, fate intervenes, and Su arrives too late to accompany him on this new adventure.

Fast forward to Singapore, where Chow shares a poignant story with a friend about the olden days—how secrets were whispered into hollows in trees and buried with mud. It is here that Su unexpectedly shows up at his apartment, yet remains silent when she calls. The realization of her visit dawns on Chow only when he discovers a cigarette butt marked with lipstick in his ashtray, a bittersweet reminder of her presence.

Three years pass, and fate continues to weave its complex tapestry. Su seeks out Mrs. Suen, who plans to emigrate to the United States, asking if her apartment is still up for rent. Meanwhile, Chow returns to Hong Kong, hoping to catch up with his previous landlords, the Koos, who have since moved to the Philippines. Inquiries about Su’s family reveal that a woman and child have taken up residence next door, leaving him with a sense of unfinished business.

Amidst the backdrop of the Vietnam War, Chow finds himself in Cambodia, where at the historic Angkor Wat, he encounters a monk. In a moment of introspection, he whispers his secrets into a hollow in the wall, sealing it with mud—symbolizing the unvoiced emotions that linger between him and Su.

Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 16:09