Fremont, California – In the debut feature film, “Dìdi,” by filmmaker Sean Wang, audiences are introduced to a character named Chris Wang. The story revolves around Chris, a 13-year-old boy who exhibits typical teenage behavior by making offensive jokes, being self-absorbed, and causing trouble. The film, set in 2008, captures Chris’s insecurities and his strained relationships with his mother and sister. It is a semi-autobiographical tale, as both the director and protagonist share the same last name, and the film incorporates elements from the director’s real life.
The script of “Dìdi” follows various vignettes that portray the events of Chris’s summer. As the season progresses, Chris makes a series of poor decisions that alienate him from his friends and create tension within his family. The storytelling is dryly humorous and accurately captures the way boys communicate during that awkward phase between childhood and adolescence. Each scene builds anticipation, leading to Chris’s inevitable social blunders with impeccable comedic timing.
“Dìdi” shares similarities with the film “Eighth Grade” directed by Bo Burnham, as both films explore the transition from middle to high school. However, “Dìdi” sets itself apart by delving into the internet culture of its time, featuring AIM (AOL Instant Messenger) conversations and social media platforms like Facebook and MySpace. The film effectively recreates the anxiety-inducing moments of waiting for a message and incorporates the authentic internet lingo of the era.
The film’s authenticity is heightened by the performances of its predominantly first-time child actors. Izaac Wang, who plays Chris, delivers a compelling performance, blending comedic timing with sensitivity. His portrayal reveals Chris’s desire to be accepted while grappling with insecurities rooted in his cultural identity. The film subtly addresses the struggles of growing up Asian in a predominantly white society, highlighting the impact of hurtful stereotypes and the pressure to conform.
While “Dìdi” succeeds in capturing the nuances of middle school social dynamics and exploring cultural identity, the film falters in its third act. The comedic edge gives way to an unclear attempt at emotional depth when focusing on the strained relationship between Chris and his mother. This shift feels abrupt and detracts from the film’s strengths. Nevertheless, “Dìdi” leaves audiences with a sense of charm, potential, and authenticity.
Premiering at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, “Dìdi” is currently seeking distribution, offering an intimate and relatable coming-of-age story that stands out from the crowd.