Ah Niu, the 48-year-old Malaysian actor-singer best remembered for his 1997 hit song "Look Over Here, Girl," returns to the silver screen after a six-year hiatus. He stars in "Blooms of Happiness," a film now showing in Singapore cinemas. The movie presents Ah Niu in the role of Gao Zhitian, a convenience store owner navigating the complexities of a midlife crisis. Through this character, Ah Niu embarks on a deeply personal journey, reflecting on his mother's recent passing and the nuances of familial love.
In December 2022, Ah Niu faced the heartbreaking loss of his mother at the age of 72. Her death prompted him to reflect on their time together and the lessons she imparted.
"It was only when my mum passed on that I realised, you only know what you had when you've nothing left." – Ah Niu
These reflections are poignantly interwoven with his portrayal of Zhitian, who encounters a mysterious figure offering eight chances to time travel and alter history.
Zhitian's wife in the film, Luo Sifen, is a sales livestreamer, adding another layer of modern challenges to the character's life. As Zhitian explores these time-altering opportunities, he uncovers essential truths about kinship and his mother's unconditional love. The narrative arc resonates strongly with Ah Niu's personal experiences, especially a cherished memory involving a car accident with his parents.
Ah Niu recalls how his mother would leave him with a convenience shop owner as she went to the market, evoking feelings of abandonment and longing.
"Although it was for just five to 10 minutes, I felt like I was abandoned and wondered if she would come back for me." – Ah Niu
This childhood memory parallels Zhitian's journey back in time, where he re-experiences events through a new lens. In one poignant scene, Zhitian returns to share a reunion dinner with his younger self and his mother, a moment that stirred deep emotions in Ah Niu.
"I felt like I was back to being a young boy again, where in that moment, I knew my mother wouldn't come back for me. I shedded tears as I imagined saying goodbye to her," – Ah Niu
Ah Niu's reflections on his upbringing reveal a household filled with love and nurturing. He fondly remembers his mother waking him and his four sisters for late-night suppers, a testament to the close-knit family bond.
"I was a plump boy when I was young and I think it was because my parents loved us very much," – Ah Niu
These memories enhance the emotional depth of his character's journey in "Blooms of Happiness."
The film explores what Zhitian would express to his mother if given another chance, echoing Ah Niu's own sentiments.
"One of the points that was touched on is about what Zhitian would want to say to his mother if he was given a chance to turn back time." – Ah Niu
For Ah Niu, these reflections culminate in gratitude towards his parents for their unwavering love and support.
"Thank you, I love both of you very much and am really grateful. I am able to get this far in life because of both of you. You gave me the most unconditional love in this world and the most perfect form of companionship." – Ah Niu
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