Educational Media Reviews Online

This film explores the immigrant experience from the point of view of five-year-old Mei, newly arrived from China with her mother and brother. At her new school, Mei does not join in activities, but watches everything from a corner. To the increasing frustration of her teacher, classmates, and mother, Mei does not seem to want to even try to participate in activities with the other children because of the language barrier.

Beautiful colors and the clarity of the animated figures give this film an almost 3-D aspect. Rich browns and oranges, bright pinks and yellows, and soothing blues and tans create a rich tapestry of visual harmony. Original background music provides a suitable sound without overpowering the dialogue. When Mei and her family members speak, English subtitles appear.

Based on director Joyce Lee’s childhood experiences, the film captures the young girl’s emotions and lets the viewer experience her feeling of not fitting in. A flashback to a former teacher with a stick explains Mei’s fear of her current teacher’s stick, even though it is not used as punishment. A dream sequence which features dresses floating in trees brings out Mei’s vivid imagination. These and other situations heighten the emotional appeal of the film.

Even if not an immigrant, a viewer can relate to Mei’s feelings of not being understood, being ashamed, and the security of home. Although the main character is a child, this film is not for young children, but rather for adults who may be working with immigrant children or ESL students. College students in the field of education would probably be the prime audience.

An added feature on the DVD is Behind the Scenes, in which Joyce Lee talks about her experiences as a child and the animation process is explained.