Entertainment Blog #269 | After Yang [2021] : An Emotional Exploration of Humanity and Technology

After Yang, directed and edited by Kogonada, is a contemplative science fiction drama that delves into the essence of human experience through the lens of futuristic technology. The film’s narrative centers on a family's struggle to repair their malfunctioning robotic son, Yang, whose presence has been pivotal in connecting their adopted Chinese daughter with her heritage. This plot resonates deeply with real-life themes of loss, identity, and the quest for understanding, making it a poignant reflection on the nature of what it means to be human.

After Yang was Released on March 4, 2022, by A24 and Showtime and premiered at the Cannes Film Festival on July 8, 2021. The film features a compelling cast including Colin Farrell, Jodie Turner-Smith, Justin H. Min, and Haley Lu Richardson. It also marks one of the final scores composed by Ryuichi Sakamoto before his passing in 2023. The film has been praised for its delicate handling of profound themes, and its exploration of technology’s impact on personal and familial connections.

The plot unfolds as Jake and Kyra, played by Colin Farrell and Jodie Turner-Smith, are faced with the breakdown of Yang, an android they purchased to help their adopted daughter, Mika, connect with her Chinese roots. When Yang becomes unresponsive and is no longer under warranty, Jake embarks on a quest to repair him, encountering various challenges and uncovering Yang’s hidden memories. These memories reveal the android’s complex interactions with a mysterious woman named Ada, adding layers to the narrative as Jake and his family grapple with the implications of Yang’s malfunction and the memories that surface.

In their pursuit to restore Yang, Jake discovers that the android’s memory bank holds a wealth of personal experiences, offering glimpses into Yang’s internal world and relationships. The emotional depth of the film is amplified as Jake explores these memories, leading to poignant revelations about Yang's past interactions and the nature of his existence. As the family confronts the reality of Yang’s impending demise, they must decide how to honor his memory and integrate the impact of his presence into their lives.

After Yang stands apart from other science fiction films through its intimate focus on familial bonds and the human condition rather than grand technological concerns. While many sci-fi narratives explore dystopian futures or technological threats, Kogonada’s film opts for a more subdued, introspective approach, examining the everyday emotional repercussions of advanced technology on personal relationships.

Critically, the film has been well-received, with an 89% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a Metacritic score of 78. Reviewers have lauded Colin Farrell’s performance and Kogonada’s ability to weave a heartfelt narrative that challenges viewers to reflect on their own experiences and connections. The film’s thoughtful approach has earned it a spot among notable sci-fi films of the decade and has been recognized for its unique take on technology and humanity.

Despite its modest box office performance, earning approximately $700K against a production budget of $9–20 million, After Yang has made a significant impact on audiences and critics. It was well received on VOD platforms though. Its exploration of deep, emotional themes within a futuristic context makes it a standout piece in contemporary cinema, offering a contemplative look at the intersection of technology and human experience.

After Yang is a compelling and introspective film that challenges conventional sci-fi narratives by focusing on the subtler aspects of human connection and technology’s role within it. It is a thought-provoking film that invites viewers to reflect on their own lives and relationships through the lens of a beautifully crafted and emotionally resonant story.