Producing and co-writing ‘Exit 19’

Abstract

Exit 19 《大人的事情》 is a drama short film that explores the emotional complexities of family dynamics through the lens of a young adult, Anne. The film delves into themes of generational conflict, emotional suppression, and the struggles faced when dealing with unspoken family secrets, particularly in the context of terminal illness. The goal is to create a story that resonates with individuals who have experienced fractured family relationships, inviting audiences to reflect on their own familial ties and the emotional costs of silence.

The project was approached through a narrative film structure, shot with a raw, intimate visual style to emphasize the emotional distance between characters. The methodology involved working closely with the director and crew to achieve a realistic portrayal of family interactions. The film was developed through collaboration among NTU film students, employing techniques in storytelling, cinematography, and sound to evoke genuine emotional responses from the audience.

The process revealed that the quiet, often unseen struggles of individuals in challenging family environments are crucial to understanding the emotional depth of relationships. The film’s portrayal of generational gaps and unspoken truths generated strong audience empathy and reflection, shedding light on the complexities of maintaining love and duty while seeking emotional independence.

Exit 19 offers a fresh take on the coming-of-age genre by focusing on familial emotional dynamics rather than individual growth alone. The film’s unique approach to portraying generational conflict and silent suffering provides value to both those who have lived through similar experiences and those seeking to understand the intricacies of family relationships. The film serves as a valuable cultural and emotional reflection for young adults, families, and anyone grappling with the complexities of emotional honesty within family structures.