The Water Murmurs

Synopsis

The Water Murmurs (original title: 海边升起一座悬崖), released in 2022, is a Chinese drama that unfolds along the mysterious coastal cliffs, exploring themes of memory, loss, and reconciliation. Featuring Annabel Yao in a compelling lead role, the film artfully blends poetic imagery with an intimate narrative, drawing viewers into the meditative world of its protagonist. As the story progresses, nuanced emotions are revealed amidst the dynamic natural landscape, inviting audiences to reflect on the delicate balance between human connections and the passage of time. The film’s atmospheric cinematography and thoughtful pacing offer a contemplative experience that resonates beyond traditional storytelling.

Cast

• 

  Annabel Yao

  Nian

• Rongxi Li

  Grandpa Peng

• 

  Zhang Taiwen

  Tian

Reviews

Critically, The Water Murmurs has garnered a mixed to positive reception. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds an approval rating around 70%, with praise often directed at its visual poetry and Annabel Yao's nuanced performance. Reviewers from The Hollywood Reporter noted the film's "stunning coastal imagery and a hauntingly quiet narrative," while also commenting on pacing issues that might challenge some viewers. IMDb users have rated the film approximately 6.8/10, appreciating its atmospheric tone and emotional depth, though some found the plot's subtlety less engaging compared to more mainstream dramas. On Metacritic, the score hovers near 60 out of 100, reflecting a generally favorable yet cautious consensus. Critics highlight the film's artistic ambition and aesthetic grace, balanced by remarks about its slow unfolding and sparse dialogue, which may not appeal to all audiences. Collectively, The Water Murmurs is recognized as a beautiful, contemplative work with strong performances, especially by Annabel Yao, albeit tailored for those who favor mood-driven cinema over conventional plot-heavy films.

See also

A Christmas Prince: The Royal Wedding

RETURN

Return

Return