Taiwanese filmmaker Chang Jung-chi Joyu Wang/The Wall Street Journal
Taiwanese filmmaker Chang Jung-chi established himself with his 2012 debut feature “Touch of the Light,” an uplifting true-life story about a young blind piano prodigy. In his second film, the mystery-thriller “Partners in Crime,” Mr. Chang takes on the darker side of teenage life.
The movie follows three high-school boys who become friends as they investigate the death of a female student, which may have been by suicide. The emotional bond between the boys develops and then disintegrates amid lies and deceit.
“This is a story about friendship, with some mysterious elements, but it’s less important than what I want to say about relationships” in society, said the 34-year-old Mr. Chang, who gained attention when he won two prizes for “Touch of the Light,” including best new director, at Taiwan’s Golden Horse Awards in 2012.
“Partners in Crime,” which opened in Taiwan on Sept. 26, is currently showing at the Busan International Film Festival.
Mr. Chang spoke to the Journal about the film and his views on teen social issues. Edited excerpts:
A scene from ‘Partners in Crime’ Hong Kong International Film Festival Society
“Touch of the Light” is about hopes and dreams, and “Partners in Crime” is a fictional thriller. But do they share any common themes?
Yes. By contrast, [the two movies are] totally different. However, the male lead in “Touch of the Light,” who cannot see, belongs to society’s vulnerable groups and he is similar to the kids [in “Partners in Crime”], whose characteristics are also seen as vulnerable. But what they are longing for is the same: warmth, family care, recognition and more friends.