Modern Love Story IV

“Modern Love Story IV: Three Equals One Love” (愛情戀曲IV: 愛情3加1) is an episode in a 1994 TV romantic comedy series featuring various popular actors. This is the segment in which Faye Wong (王菲) appears. The plot is flimsy, the script is equally thin, and the production is obviously rushed. The producers were apparently trying to capitalize on Faye’s appeal. The look and feel of the entire film is from Faye’s April 1994 album, Mystery, especially the hit “I’m Willing” (我願意), which is included in the video (part 3 below). In fact, compare the scenes toward the end with the MV of Faye singing this song at the ocean’s edge. You can’t miss the similarities.

These stills were captured from YouTube videos [7.12.08: they are no longer available on YouTube] and they are the best parts of the entire show. The camera lingers on Faye, zooming in on her face and eyes. It’s obvious that filmmakers are beginning to realize how extraordinarily photogenic she is, and the close-ups provide the only really aesthetic moments in the film.

Click below to see the four videos [7.12.08: they are no longer available on YouTube] that make up the episode. The quality isn’t great, but it’s watchable. I’m not sure, but I believe this performance predates Chungking Express, which was shot later in the year. Faye’s appearance remains pretty much the same, but the quality of the production, script, directing, etc. makes a world of difference. I’m guessing that director Wong Kar-Wai (王家卫) must’ve seen something in this video that made him realize Faye would be perfect for the part opposite Tony Leung Chiu-Wai (梁朝偉).

[7.12.08: These videos are no longer available on YouTube]

Modern Love Story IV: Three Equals One Love, part 1.

Modern Love Story IV: Three Equals One Love, part 2.

Modern Love Story IV: Three Equals One Love, part 3.

Modern Love Story IV: Three Equals One Love, part 4.