Reclaim My Summer
Chen Hao Wei
Taiwan / Col / 29'00" In Mandarin and Minnan with English subtitles
At the age of 17, instead of enjoying her life, Xuan lives in a small bungalow built inside the yard with her mother and younger sister, surrounded by, in her opinion, all kinds of junk. Apart from having to help out in the recycling yard, she is also tasked with taking care of her indulged sister. One day, her crush from school asks her out on a ride. Tasked with collecting recyclables from the neighbourhood, Xuan decides to sneak away from her mother and finally experience a moment with friends as a normal teenager
Artist's Statement
This is a story about a 17-year-old girl in a single-parent family making a living in a recycling yard, who projects the desire to be seen and cared for as rebellious actions. Like most teenagers going through puberty, Xuan in "Reclaim My Summer" disdains the stress originating from her family. However, her defiance is but a means of seeking attention and care. This work illustrates a teenager's desire for a carefree life though the contrast between the confined environment that she grew up in, and the freedom of the vast outside world.
Juror's Comment
A girl has to work in a recycling yard run by her family all summer. The hormonal changes in her body, coupled with the confusion of growing up, finds release during a conflict. This work is restrained, realistic and touching. (Li Ya-mei)
