Fun, uplifting and motivating
Hilarious yet heartfelt, this movie is a celebration of youth, friendship and finding your place in the world. It'll definitely make you want to call your friends (and maybe move to a remote village!)Story - A little far fetched at times, but that can be expected of a comedy, and they played it really well. It was quite predictable of the genre but in a good way, 8.5/10
Cast - The acting was all good and very convincing, 10/10
Music - Soundtrack was perfect, lots of bright, upbeat music that perfectly complements the scene. The music completes this movie, 10/10
Rewatch value - I'm not the type to rewatch movies often, but this is a light, happy movie that you could definitely rewatch if you wanted to, 8.5/10
Overall, Coffee or Tea is a very fun, touching comedy with plenty of thought-provoking moments. It doesn't take itself too seriously, but was more profound than I expected. If you're looking for a movie to make you smile, then this is the one!
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"Bitterness has its own flavor"
Coffee or Tea was a light hearted comedy about three young men who were at different places in their lives where their dreams were concerned. One had given up on his dreams and life. The second man was enthusiastically ready to bet everything on his dream. The third was swimming in circles with his dream, held back by his relationship with his father. They met up, forged a friendship and business that would guide them all in the same direction and help them each to grow as individuals.Wei Jin Bei is at the end of his rope after his most recent failed business attempt. Unable to sleep, he’s ready to give up on life when effervescent deliveryman Peng Xiu Bing steps in. Peng is going to his remote hometown to begin his own delivery business and takes an extremely reluctant Wei with him. Peng’s village relies on growing tea, but with the depressed prices has lost most of its young people. Peng is determined to reinvigorate the people and town even when he meets with failure. It will take a chance meeting to help turn both his and Wei’s fortunes around.
Peng Yu Chang as Peng was a bright ball of positive sunshine radiating energy on his more dour buddies. Liu Hao Ran played the glum business brains from Beijing transformed by the small village. He often seemed obscured by his floppy hair and large glasses. Yin Fang’s Li Shao Qun had the least development as the rebellious coffee grower who was alienated from his father. The acting wasn’t particularly nuanced, but then again, neither was the story. Along with the business elements there were whimsical animals. What movie doesn't need a talking pig?
Coffee or Tea was a feel good movie about friendship and determination with gentle humor that avoided being cringeworthy for the most part. The film streamlined the story and glossed over the obvious business hurdles as well as the timeline. Most of this could be forgiven as the focus was on the camaraderie of the young men as they healed themselves and their relationships. The film was respectful of traditions and the older generations. At the same time, it also showed that there were times when innovation and new paths must be cut in order to survive as the world evolves. The enduring relationships and new friendships forged proved to be the key to success and reconciliation. While Coffee or Tea could be simplistic and felt low budget, it’s one of those easy movies you can watch if you are looking for a mood lifter.
12 February 2024
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Even someday I may fall hard
Story of friendship, perseverance, and the power of dreams.At its core, the movie shows that success isn’t just about reaching the finish line but about not giving up, even when the odds seem stacked against you. This theme is beautifully woven throughout the story, as the characters face one setback after another, yet refuse to give in. Their determination becomes a symbol of hope for anyone who has ever struggled with making their dreams a reality.
The theme of trust is equally important. The film makes a clear statement that partnerships built on faith and honesty are key to overcoming obstacles and achieving dreams.
I hate to admit but I only watch this because of Peng Yu Chang. While two other main actors deliver the role requirements, for me, Peng Yu Chang delivers an outstanding performance as one of the lead characters. He has a natural charisma that draws you in from the very start, making the audience smile with his light-hearted and humorous portrayal in the early part of the movie. But as the plot thickens and he is forced to make difficult decisions—ultimately choosing to favor his people over his personal desires—he brings a deep emotional intensity to the role. His portrayal is so moving that I found myself genuinely affected by his choices, and at one point, I even got goosebumps. Peng Yu Chang’s ability to balance both the joy and heartbreak of his character’s journey is truly remarkable.
The movie will leave the audience with a lasting message— “never let go of your dreams until you are ready to wake up and make it happen.” It’s a reminder that dreams are worth fighting for, but they also require action, hard work, and, most importantly, faith in yourself and in the people around you.
This film is light-themed, short and sweet, a must-watch for anyone who believes in the power of chasing dreams.
Will I consider watching it again? Yes, probably if Im having wasted effort and needed an inspiration.
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