After Yang
Movie Trailer
Release Date
March 4, 2022
Genre
Science Fiction, Drama
Cast & Crew
- Colin Farrell as Jake
- Jodie Turner-Smith as Kyra
- Malea Emma Tjandrawidjaja as Mika
- Justin H. Min as Yang
- Haley Lu Richardson as Ada
- Sarita Choudhury as Cleo
Director
Kogonada
Other Movies Director is Known For:
- Columbus (2017)
Producer
Andrew Goldman, Caroline Kaplan, Paul Mezey, Theresa Park
Writer
Kogonada, based on the short story “Saying Goodbye to Yang” by Alexander Weinstein
Budget
$6 million (estimated)
Production Company
A24, Cinereach, Per Capita Productions
Running Time
96 minutes
Languages
English
Maturity Rating
PG
Content Advisory
- Mild language
- Thematic elements including grief and loss
Movie Story
“After Yang” is a contemplative and emotionally resonant science fiction drama that explores themes of family, identity, and the nature of memory. Set in a near-future world, the story centers on Jake (Colin Farrell) and Kyra (Jodie Turner-Smith), a married couple who live with their adopted daughter Mika (Malea Emma Tjandrawidjaja) and Yang (Justin H. Min), an advanced android who serves as both a companion and a cultural guide for Mika, who was adopted from China.
When Yang suddenly malfunctions, Jake is thrust into an introspective journey to repair him. As Jake searches for a way to fix Yang, he uncovers hidden memories stored within the android, revealing a depth to Yang’s consciousness that Jake had never considered. These memories offer glimpses into Yang’s interactions with the family and his thoughts on existence, love, and humanity.
The film delicately balances its exploration of futuristic technology with a deep emotional core, as Jake grapples with the loss of Yang and what it means for his family. Through Yang’s memories, Jake reconnects with his own life, reflecting on the bonds that connect them all and the things they may have taken for granted.
“After Yang” is a meditation on the impermanence of life and the lasting impact of those we love, even when they are no longer with us. The film invites viewers to consider what it means to be human, to connect, and to remember.
Special Effects
The special effects in “After Yang” are understated and serve to enhance the film’s serene, minimalist aesthetic. The depiction of Yang as an android is subtle, focusing on his human-like appearance and behavior rather than overt mechanical elements. The futuristic setting is conveyed through sleek, modern designs and technology that feels both advanced and familiar, creating an immersive but not overwhelming backdrop for the film’s emotional narrative. The visual effects are carefully integrated to support the story’s themes of memory and connection, particularly in the sequences that explore Yang’s stored memories, which are depicted in a dreamlike, fragmented style.
Box Office Performance
“After Yang” had a limited theatrical release and was simultaneously made available on streaming platforms, in line with the distribution strategy of many indie films during the COVID-19 pandemic. The film received critical acclaim, particularly for its thoughtful writing, nuanced performances, and Kogonada’s direction. While it didn’t achieve significant box office success due to its limited release, it found a dedicated audience among fans of thought-provoking science fiction and character-driven dramas.
Filming Locations
- Yonkers, New York, USA
- New York City, New York, USA
Notable Quotes
- “How can I miss what I’m supposed to forget?” – Yang
- “We are more than what we know.” – Jake
Behind-the-Scenes
“After Yang” is directed by Kogonada, known for his meticulous visual style and ability to evoke deep emotions through minimalist storytelling. The film is based on Alexander Weinstein’s short story “Saying Goodbye to Yang” from his collection Children of the New World. Kogonada adapted the story into a screenplay that expands on the themes of memory, loss, and what it means to be human in a technologically advanced society. Colin Farrell’s performance as Jake is central to the film, portraying a father coming to terms with the loss of a beloved family member who was more than just a machine. The film’s production design and cinematography emphasize quiet, introspective moments, allowing the audience to reflect alongside the characters.
Awards
- Nominated for Gotham Independent Film Award for Best Actor (Colin Farrell)
- Nominated for Satellite Award for Best Motion Picture, International
Final Verdict
“After Yang” is a beautifully crafted, introspective film that explores the complexities of love, memory, and identity in a near-future world. Kogonada’s direction, combined with strong performances from Colin Farrell and the supporting cast, makes it a poignant meditation on what it means to be human. The film’s slow, deliberate pacing and subtle special effects create an immersive experience that invites viewers to ponder the deeper questions it raises. “After Yang” is a must-watch for those who appreciate science fiction that focuses on the human experience rather than spectacle.
IMDb Rating
6.7/10