Coming-of-age films have long explored the trials and tribulations of adolescence, but few manage to weave together humor, emotional depth, and the unique experience of an immigrant family quite like Dìdi. Directed, written, and produced by Sean Wang, this semi-autobiographical debut offers a warm, nostalgic embrace of the summer of 2008, capturing the essence of a Taiwanese American teenager’s life in Fremont, California.
The film centers on 13-year-old Chris Wang, affectionately known as “Wang Wang” to his friends and “Dìdi” to his family. Set against the backdrop of flip phones, instant messaging, and Myspace, Dìdi immerses viewers in a period that feels both familiar and refreshingly retro.
At its heart, the film portrays Chris’s journey through the trials of adolescence—dealing with his first crush, navigating friendships, and the typical teenage angst. Joan Chen delivers a standout performance as Chris’s mother, embodying the role with a mix of warmth and exasperation that resonates deeply. Despite Chris’s teenage tendency to find her “unbearably irritating,” it’s clear she remains his most steadfast supporter.
Sean Wang’s storytelling excels in balancing heartfelt moments with humor. His portrayal of Chris’s awkward attempts to navigate young love—such as Googling “how to kiss” and seeking advice on responding to his crush’s IMs—delivers both comedic relief and authentic teenage experience.
Premiering at the Sundance Film Festival, Dìdi garnered acclaim for its nostalgic portrayal of the late 2000s and won the Audience Award and a Special Jury Award for its ensemble cast. The film’s authenticity is amplified by Wang’s choice of first-time actors for the teen roles, whose performances add a layer of genuine realism. Remarkably, the young cast members closely resemble actual 13-year-olds, differing from the often older actors cast in similar roles.
The film’s nostalgia is heightened by Wang’s personal touch; much of the story is drawn from his own childhood, and filming took place in his hometown. Wang even cast his 86-year-old grandmother in the role of Nai Nai, bringing an endearing authenticity to the character.
A poignant scene features Chris filming his grandmother for his YouTube hobby. When she comments on her appearance, Chris reassures her of her beauty, and they share a touching exchange of “I love yous.” This moment underscores the film’s core message: beneath the turbulence of growing up, Chris is still a young boy with deep affection for his family.
Dìdi shines in its ability to balance levity with emotional weight, often transitioning from laughter to tears in mere moments. The film beautifully captures the process of recognizing and appreciating familial bonds, particularly as Chris grows and matures.
In summary, Dìdi invites viewers to reminisce about their own adolescent years and cherish the moments spent with loved ones.
Dìdi, a Focus Features release, is rated R by the Motion Picture Association for “language throughout, sexual material, and drug and alcohol use—all involving teens.” The film runs for 93 minutes and earns three and a half stars out of four.
