Zhang Lu’s Sister Films Mothertongue and Gloaming in Luomu Explore Rootlessness

Director Zhang Lu has premiered his new film, Mothertongue, at the Tokyo International Film Festival. This comes just weeks after its sister film, Gloaming in Luomu, won the top award at the Busan International Film Festival. The two projects were shot back-to-back in China and share cast and thematic DNA.

They explore profound feelings of displacement and belonging. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Zhang Lu discussed the deeply personal origins of these interconnected works.

How Two Films Were Born from a Single Journey

The production of Mothertongue wrapped successfully. Zhang Lu then traveled to rest near Mount Emei. He never reached his destination, instead discovering the ancient town of Luomu.

The atmosphere of the nearly empty town captivated him completely. He immediately called his lead actors with a new idea. They quickly assembled to shoot Gloaming in Luomu with just a one-page outline.

A Director’s Philosophy on Space and Story

Zhang Lu’s filmmaking process is unorthodox. He revealed that his films never start with a story or character. They always begin with a specific space that moves him emotionally.

This approach creates a powerful sense of place. The locations fundamentally shape the people and narratives that unfold within them. His work feels less scripted and more discovered.

The dialogue in both films feels remarkably natural. This is because most of it was created collaboratively on set. The actors worked from treatments, not finished screenplays, allowing for intuitive performances.

This organic method results in deeply human cinema. Zhang Lu’s sister films offer a quiet meditation on home. They resonate with anyone who has ever felt out of place.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the connection between Mothertongue and Gloaming in Luomu?

They were shot consecutively with the same lead actors. The films share themes, some costumes, and a similar visual language, acting as companion pieces.

What is Mothertongue about?

The film follows an actress who returns to her hometown after ten years. She struggles with her native dialect, which deepens her sense of alienation and loneliness.

Did Gloaming in Luomu win any awards?

Yes, it won the inaugural Best Film award at the Busan International Film Festival in October. This is a significant honor in Asian cinema.

What is Zhang Lu’s background?

He is a Korean-Chinese director. He was previously an author and literature professor before transitioning to filmmaking.

Why are themes of rootlessness common in his work?

Zhang Lu descends from immigrants and has lived a mobile life. He says these themes surface naturally from his own experiences of constant movement.

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