Arlington Road (1999)

Featured in Incluvie’s 2020 Film Festival, Kung Fu Chit tells the story of a girl who doesn’t quite fit in. At school, she is more of a reserved person, and because of this, she feels truly isolated there. She likens her experience to being stuck “in a small box with no air holes — almost suffocating.”

However, it is when she is at her Kung Fu studio that she reveals her true self.

She smells burning incense, hears the steady beat of the drum, the swoosh of the broadsword, and feels the unison and spirit of her team. This is her home — where she is surrounded by teammates and family. It is there that her inner self is revealed, and she blossoms. She feels a sense of belonging, of unity. Most importantly, she is able to be herself — powerful and free.

The moment I watched Kung Fu Chit, I became steeped in the story. There were few words spoken in this brief film, and yet it still managed to evoke many strong emotions in it’s short duration. The lead actress told an entire story with her own actions that spoke louder than words. I could see her feelings — whether it be from the pure, jarring isolation she felt alone at school, to the peace and warmth of feeling at home in her Kung Fu studio. In addition, I adored the poetic feel of the script and cinematography, the distinctive set pieces, and the striking message of the film as well.

The primary reason why Kung Fu Chit was so powerful though, was its relate-ability. Anyone who has ever experienced not fitting in with the crowd will find solace in this short film which describes the feeling of isolation perfectly to all audiences alike. I think that people of all backgrounds can easily put themselves into the shoes of the protagonist and empathize; it is when we are in places where our interests and passions are, that we truly feel at home and are able to be ourselves.