Shih-Ching Tsou's powerful film, 'Left-Handed Girl,' delves into a sensitive topic that hits close to home for many.
As a child, Tsou was told by her grandfather, 'The left hand is the devil's hand.' This startling statement, a product of cultural superstition, left a lasting impact on her. Unbeknownst to her, she was already 'corrected' in kindergarten, forced to use her right hand. But here's where it gets personal...
Tsou's own mother, also left-handed, faced the same fate, coerced into using her right hand to conform to societal norms. This family history inspired a pivotal scene in her film, where a young Taiwanese girl, I-Jing, battles the belief that her left hand is sinful. As the story unfolds, we see the impact of this ancient prejudice on I-Jing's family, including her mother's financial struggles and her sister's affair.
And this is the part most people miss—the casting of Nina Ye, who plays I-Jing, is a fascinating coincidence. Nina, a seasoned child actor, was also naturally left-handed but had been 'corrected' by her grandmother. Tsou's team had to re-train her to use her left hand for the role. This discovery left Tsou shocked, realizing that such practices still exist.
The film, shot on iPhones, is a raw portrayal of family secrets, resilience, and the unique challenges Asian women face in a society that favors sons. Tsou's personal experiences, like being judged for her darker skin tone, add depth to the narrative. She recalls a visit to Taiwan for the Qingming festival, where her mother only spoke of her brother, considering Tsou 'married off' and no longer part of the family.
Tsou's journey took her from Taipei to New York for her master's, a move she embraced due to conflicts with her strict father. Her friendship with Oscar-winning director Sean Baker, whom she met at school, led to their collaboration on 'Take Out' in 2004. Since then, Tsou has been an integral part of Baker's films, including 'Tangerine' and 'The Florida Project.'
'Left-Handed Girl' has been a festival favorite, selected as Taiwan's submission for the Oscars. Its impact is evident as Tsou encounters left-handed individuals who share similar stories of correction. Interestingly, Nina's grandmother had a change of heart, allowing Nina to reclaim her left hand.
Tsou's film challenges outdated traditions and superstitions. She invites viewers to reflect on whether they should reinvent certain traditions to ensure fairness for all. 'Left-Handed Girl' is a compelling call for change, leaving a lasting impression on audiences. But will it spark a broader conversation about cultural biases and the power of personal narratives in cinema? Share your thoughts below!
