Writer: Tammy Ang

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Watch this if you liked: “The Kids Are All Right”, “Candy Rain”, “Far From Heaven”

"All About Love" is about past lovers and lesbians who are both knocked up and meet each other again in a pregnancy seminar -- Macy (Sandra Ng) a bisexual lawyer and Anita, a working woman (Vivian Chow) reignite the love sparks after 12 years of being apart from each other.

This is a light romantic comedy which also has a strong flavor of feminism in the movie. It daringly challenges and explores some societal issues of concern such as the politics of gender, bisexuality, feminism and discrimination towards unwed pregnant women. However they are presented interestingly by the director in a light and humorous way. Messages from of feminism are displayed indirectly in the movie which can be seen from the lines as well as the settings. It is amazing on how the director is challenging the norm of the society by showing a woman playing a dominant or superior role in the movie.

Although this is a story that involves a relationship between two women, the relationship builds up naturally just like any other normal couples out there. In the scene when Macy and Anita are taking the escalator and looking into each other's eyes while the movie's theme song "You're The One" is playing in the background, it appears to be just as romantic. The director is able to put away the queer relationship stereotypes, showing the relationship is just like any other relationship. Macy and Anita love like a normal human being will and they also have fears towards commitments as well as patience and tolerance for each other.

Few of the queer but rather interesting parts in the movie are when a family member of Macy unexpectedly comes out of the closet and also towards the ending when it is revealed on how the couple is raising their children together with their former partners. It is an occurrence that has never happened in the movies, even more so in real life! However, it is something that the audience will need to find out for themselves and they should be prepared for some jarring moments in the movie as well. From a believable and realistic start, the movie falls into an over-idealized rhythm which leads to a potentially bizarre ending to some viewers. Perhaps this is intentionally done, for the audience to see how deep the society is being impacted by the norm of gender roles in the real world albeit in a comedic approach.

Overall, "All About Love" is an interesting approach to explore the queer ladies' life instead of solely focusing on the lead characters' sexuality as the main theme. It is worth a watch for its unique style and refreshingly creative take on women empowerment and unconditional love. Fans of Vivian Chow should not miss the opportunity to see her on the silver screen again after 15 years hiatus from the entertainment biz and this time, she lip-locking with legendary actress Sandra Ng herself! They both prove that their natural on-screen chemistry amplifies their talents and it is indeed a rare opportunity to see the two veteran actresses play (pregnant) passionate lovers yet they make it look so naturally right.

Cinema Online, 24 February 2011