This film is about a successful young man who falls in love with a his best friend even he knows his love cannot be reciprocated.
"Permanent Residence" is a very well made film. I was pleasantly surprised throughout by the technical aspects, such as excellent scene composition, great lighting and cinematography. Scenes for "Permanent Residence" were shot in Hong Kong, Japan, Australia and Israel. For a niche film without promised returns, I am impressed that the director managed to secure a generous funding to finance this film.
Plot wise, "Permanent Residence" has a touching plot that deals with life, death, love, friendship and betrayal in a matter of two hours. The character development is excellent, and I feel for Ivan's pain for his love that is not reciprocated. I am angered by Windson's selfishness. I wonder whether he is just truly selfish and exploited Ivan financially, or he is closeted and decided to follow the social expectations.
Being a niche film, "Permanent Residence" also shatters taboos by incorporating funeral scenes. I commend the filmmakers for their courage in making a non-mainstream film, especially in Hong Kong where such films are marginalised into oblivion.
"Permanent Residence" is a film to feel and savour. I hope there will be more Hong Kong films like "Permanent Residence".
