In the Mood for Love — One of the 100 Best Films of the 21st Century

In the Mood for Love is a romantic drama produced by Springtime Film and Jet Tone Films, directed by Wong Kar-wai and starring Maggie Cheung and Tony Leung Chiu-wai. It was first released in Hong Kong on September 29, 2000, followed by its release in the mainland of China on November 24 of the same year. A 4K restored IMAX version was later released to mark the film’s 20th anniversary, premiering in the mainland of China on December 30, 2021. On February 14, 2025, the film’s Director’s Special Edition, marking its 25th anniversary, was released in the mainland of China. 

The film took 15 months to shoot and is set in 1960s Hong Kong. It tells the story of Su Lizhen and Zhou Muyun, neighbors who discover that their respective spouses are having affairs. Initially driven by a desire for revenge, they begin spending time together and eventually develop feelings for each other. 

In the Mood for Love does not follow a traditional linear narrative. Rather than presenting a complete beginning, development, climax, and ending, it pieces the story together through fragmented episodes, leaving some plot details unstated and allowing ample room for the audience’s imagination. The relationships between the characters are likewise not presented directly, but revealed through their actions and dialogue. This fragmented and episodic narrative gradually brings the pieces together into a complete story, representing a significant departure from traditional storytelling.

Since 2000, the film has won numerous awards in China and abroad, making it the most decorated film directed by Wong Kar-wai. In 2001, it won multiple international awards for Best Foreign Language Film, including at the 26th César Awards in France and the 51st German Film Awards. After 2009, it was ranked No. 1 on CNN’s list of the Best Asian Films and No. 5 on The Guardian’s 100 Best Films of the 21st Century.