Chinese actress, writer, and director Jia Ling takes on the lead role in a Chinese remake of Masaharu Take’s film “100 Yen Love,” bringing a sanitized version to the screen with mixed results.
Retaining the core theme of self-belief from the original, “Yolo” follows the story of an overweight woman in her thirties who embarks on a journey of self-discovery through boxing. However, it’s not until the end credits, revealing Jia’s own significant weight loss, that the film truly strikes an emotional chord.
Coming off the success of “Hi, Mom” in 2021, Jia Ling steps back into the spotlight as both a performer and director. In “Yolo,” she portrays Leying, a 32-year-old who lives a stagnant life until she decides to take up boxing as a means of transformation.
The remake softens some of the rough edges of its predecessor, focusing more on Leying’s personal growth while downplaying the darker elements of the original narrative. Despite this, Jia’s performance is commendable, showcasing her dedication to the role.
Leying’s journey unfolds as she navigates family conflicts, including a strained relationship with her sister and a betrayal by her boyfriend. These challenges push her to break free from her comfort zone and pursue her passion for boxing, leading her to cross paths with a seasoned boxer, Haokun.
While “Yolo” maintains themes of self-belief and perseverance, it also introduces commentary on Chinese societal pressures, media influence, and the pursuit of wealth. This broader scope adds depth to the story but may dilute the impact of Leying’s personal achievements for some viewers.
One notable departure from the original film is “Yolo’s” avoidance of certain controversial plot points, opting instead for a more uplifting tone throughout. This decision, while appealing to a wider audience, may leave fans of the original feeling that some of the story’s grittiness has been lost.
Ultimately, “Yolo” is a testament to Jia Ling’s talent and commitment, both on and off-screen. While the film may not reach the same emotional depths as its Japanese predecessor, Jia’s transformation, highlighted in the credits, serves as a poignant reminder of the film’s underlying message of self-improvement and resilience.
