Sounds of Silence is a typical case of how people find themselves at crossroads in life. The plot of the movie follows Li Qi, a lawyer born to deaf parents. He can hear, unlike his parents. Li Qi didn’t have an easy life, not only because of a hearing child to deaf parents, but also because he grew up in poverty and sadness. All these became the reasons as to why he always had a hunger to earn more money, to live a better life, and be successful. And while he has a drive, his life changes when he gets a case of fraud against the deaf community. He meets a deaf girl named Zhang Xiaorui, who is fighting for her brother. The police take her brother away. When she first approaches Li Qi, he denies helping her out. The girl tries to convince him a lot, but no matter what, he won’t listen, as he is on a drive to “do better” in life. Even though she offers legal fees, he refuses, stating that his fees are much higher. But soon after, he agrees to help her out for free. And that is when he realizes what the entire system is all about. His morals are put to the test, and so are his ethics. As the case progresses, he understands why her brother was taken away and what the actual plight of deaf people is. Will he be able to rescue her brother?
I don’t know why this movie continues to remain so underrated. It has to be one of the best ones in terms of plot. The plot is so heart-warming and very thought-provoking. A great deal of the world of the deaf and the dumb is also shown. The sign language is used extensively, which makes the narrative even more authentic than it already is.
Other than that, the acting is excellent. For example, Tan Jianci, who plays Li Qi, is convincing in his role. We can see the moral dilemma he is in before taking up the case. At one point, he wishes to become a top lawyer who handles all the high-profile cases. On the other hand, we see him feeling for Zhang Xiaorui as he has lived a similar life to hers. So even at that crossroad, Tan Jianci comes across as someone who is very natural. Additionally, Lan Xiya as Zhang Xiaorui is also amazing. She gives a compelling performance as a deaf and dumb girl who is trying to survive the world while also fighting hard for her brother. It is her instincts that help her brother and get a good lawyer in Li Qi on board.
All in all, this is a great watch. I would highly recommend watching this for its plot, the character development, the twists and the turns, as well as the pacing. Everything in this movie goes in its favor, which is what makes it worth watching.
Final Score- [8/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Ch
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times