Zhang Lu Explores Connection and Disconnection in ‘Mothertongue’

Director Zhang Lu is presenting his latest film, Mothertongue, at the Tokyo International Film Festival after receiving the inaugural best film award for Gloaming in Luomu at the Busan International Film Festival in October 2023. The two films, created consecutively in locations just hours apart, share themes, actors, and even some costumes, showcasing Zhang’s distinct style and approach to storytelling.

In Mothertongue, the narrative follows struggling actress Haruki, portrayed by Bai Baihe, as she returns to her hometown after a decade in Beijing. Haruki grapples with her inability to speak her native dialect fluently, intensifying her feelings of alienation. The character seeks solace from her former drama teacher, Liu Dan, whose memory struggles add complexity to their reunion. Haruki’s interactions with Liu’s son, played by Wang Chuanjun, help her feel more connected to her roots.

Zhang, who has transitioned from a career in literature to filmmaking, shared insights about his creative process during a Zoom interview with The Hollywood Reporter. He reflected on the significance of his Busan award, stating, “Winning an award is, of course, something to be happy about, but not something to take too seriously.” He emphasized the role of luck in awards and the subjective nature of artistic merit.

When asked about his journey into film, Zhang recounted the story of making a bet that anyone could direct a movie. He noted that this moment served as a catalyst for a passion that had already been brewing since childhood. “Since I was a child, I’ve been sensitive to sound and images, though I didn’t realize then that I could make a living from them,” he explained.

Zhang’s films often reflect themes of migration and disconnection, rooted in his own experiences as a Korean-Chinese individual. His grandparents’ immigration from Korea to China and his subsequent years in South Korea have shaped his worldview. “I’ve lived most of my life in constant motion, in unsettled environments,” he said. He believes these themes are not a conscious choice but rather a natural outcome of his life’s journey.

Mothertongue and its sister film, Gloaming in Luomu, highlight the importance of place in storytelling. Zhang noted that none of his films began with a character or plot but rather with a space that captivated him. “Only after being moved by that particular space can I begin to imagine the people and the story that might exist there,” he stated.

He found inspiration in Luomo, a town rich in history, while taking a break after wrapping up Mothertongue. He described his fascination with the air of Luomo, which led him to stay longer than intended. “Standing there, you can still feel the traces of all those past generations who once thrived,” he remarked. This connection to history influences his filmmaking process, allowing him to weave the essence of a location into his narratives.

Zhang explained that the collaborative nature of his filmmaking allows for an organic development of character interactions. In both Mothertongue and Gloaming in Luomu, the dialogue emerged through a loose structure that encouraged actors to bring their own energy to the roles. “When you start from something open and undefined, the actors respond instinctively,” he said.

Despite the unconventional approach, Zhang remains skeptical of traditional narrative structures. He believes that genuine human interactions, rather than rigid storylines, convey true emotion. “A complete narrative, in a sense, is something frozen, dead,” he stated. He values the spontaneity of interactions and the depth they add to the viewer’s experience.

As he continues his exploration of storytelling through film, Zhang Lu’s work stands as a testament to the complexities of connection and disconnection. His films invite audiences to reflect on their own experiences of place and identity, fostering a deeper understanding of the human condition.