You Are the Apple of My Eye

You Are the Apple of My Eye, released in 2011, is a Taiwanese romantic comedy-drama film directed by Giddens Ko. The movie takes place in Taipei and revolves around a group of high school students with distinct personalities, interests, and aspirations. Their lives become intertwined as they navigate adolescence, friendships, and ultimately, their feelings for a popular classmate, Shen Chia-yi, also known as Sun-ah. The story centers around a close-knit group of friends who have known each other since attending Taipei First Girls' High School. Among them are Ko Ching-teng, a laid-back and easygoing student played by Ko Chen-tung, Shen Chia-yi, a stunning and intelligent star pupil played by Michelle Chen, and Chen Wei-hung, a bright but troubled student played by Joe Cheng. Throughout the film, it becomes evident that each of these friends harbors an unrequited crush on Sun-ah, with the exception of Ko Ching-teng, or at least that's what they claim. However, as the narrative unfolds, Jin-woo, Shen Chia-yi's childhood friend, played by Ko Ching-teng, is revealed to have genuine feelings for Sun-ah. Their long-friendship and close bond serve as a foundation for the exploration of true love and heartbreak. The characters are multidimensional, each displaying unique facets that make up the intricate tapestry of their friendships and relationships. As Ko Ching-teng, Jin-woo, navigates his unrequited love for Sun-ah, he is forced to confront his true feelings, acknowledging the depth of his emotional investment. His relationship with Sun-ah and his friends remains genuine and authentic, which adds an undeniable authenticity to the narrative. The portrayal of adolescent relationships serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility and intensity that defines these formative years. Throughout the film, the supporting cast undergoes significant character development. Characters like Chen Wei-hung and Shen Chia-yi's classmates, played by Ariel Lin, Kimi Hsiao and others, are skillfully woven into the narrative, lending a sense of verisimilitude and depth to the high school world presented in the film. Ko's direction masterfully balances the lighthearted, comical moments, the emotional depth, and the authentic portrayal of adolescent relationships, making the film relatable and engaging. One of the greatest strengths of the film lies in its genuine portrayal of high school life and adolescent relationships. The characters' insecurities, fears, and aspirations serve as a poignant reminder of the universal struggles that define these formative years. As Ko Ching-teng's character navigates his feelings for Sun-ah, the narrative explores themes of vulnerability, friendship, love, and the bittersweet nature of memories. Ultimately, You Are the Apple of My Eye offers a poignant portrayal of the fragility of adolescent relationships and the complexities of love, friendship and nostalgia. With its authentic representation of high school life, memorable characters, and an evocative narrative, the film leaves a lasting impression on viewers and stands as a testament to the director's skill and the cast's performances.