The film Papa presents a harrowing tale centered on a tragic family murder in Hong Kong. A 15-year-old boy commits an unthinkable act, stabbing his mother and younger sister to death with a kitchen knife. This drama, inspired by real events, delves into the aftermath of this violent crime through the perspective of the boy’s father, Yuen, portrayed by Sean Lau.
As the narrative unfolds, it oscillates between the present and flashbacks of Yuen’s life with his family. Following the incident, Yuen finds himself grappling with profound grief and guilt. He manages the logistics of his family’s funeral while reflecting on memories of his son, Ming, during happier times.
At the trial, the court reveals that Ming suffers from schizophrenia and experienced auditory hallucinations prior to the killings. Yuen reflects on his son’s behavior, struggling to identify any warning signs. The film raises critical questions about parental responsibility and whether Yuen could have prevented this tragedy.
With a focus on emotional depth, Lau’s performance captures the complexity of a father’s anguish. The film offers a nuanced exploration of the themes of family, mental illness, and the weight of culpability. Papa is set to release in UK cinemas on February 28.
For more details, visit the source: The Guardian.