How to Become Beautiful: A Movie about Inner Transformation
Beauty is often associated with external appearance, such as smooth skin, shiny hair, and well-proportioned features. However, true beauty also comes from within, such as confidence, kindness, and wisdom. How to Become Beautiful, a full directed by Dai Wei and released in 2019, explores both aspects of beauty through a poignant and uplifting story of a woman’s journey of self-discovery.
The protagonist of the movie is Qi Yue (played by Zhang Li), a young woman who works at a beauty salon in a small town. Qi Yue is far from the stereotypical image of a flawless and glamorous beauty, as she has acne scars, frizzy hair, and a self-deprecating attitude. She often feels inferior to her colleagues, who are more conventionally attractive and popular. However, Qi Yue also has a dream of becoming a beautician and creating her own beauty brand. She studies hard, saves money, and even designs her own products, but faces repeated setbacks and rejections.
One day, Qi Yue meets Fang Rong (played by Deng Chao), a mysterious and charismatic man who runs a cosmetic company in the city. Fang Rong is fascinated by Qi Yue’s talent and passion for beauty, and offers her a job as a consultant. Qi Yue is thrilled but also intimidated by the fast-paced and competitive world of high-end cosmetics. She has to learn new skills, adapt to new environments, and deal with colleagues who envy and belittle her. Moreover, she discovers that Fang Rong has a hidden agenda and a complicated past, which both intrigues and frightens her.
As Qi Yue navigates through the challenges and opportunities of her new job, she also undergoes a personal transformation. She learns to value her own strengths and flaws, to express her true feelings and opinions, and to connect with people who share her values and dreams. She also discovers the power of forgiveness, both towards herself and towards others who have hurt her. Through the ups and downs of her journey, Qi Yue becomes more beautiful not only in appearance but also in character, and finds a new purpose and direction in life.
One of the strengths of How to Become Beautiful is its nuanced and realistic portrayal of the beauty industry. The movie depicts both the positive and negative aspects of the industry, such as the creativity and innovation of product design, the diversity and inclusivity of marketing campaigns, the emotional and psychological impact of beauty standards, and the unethical and harmful practices of some companies. The movie also shows how beauty can be a form of empowerment and self-expression, as well as a source of pressure and anxiety. By showing the complexity and depth of the beauty industry, How to Become Beautiful invites viewers to reflect on their own relationship with beauty and to appreciate the beauty that comes from within.
Another strength of How to Become Beautiful is the chemistry and performance of the lead actors. Zhang Li and Deng Chao have a natural and engaging rapport that spans from light-hearted banter to intense emotional moments. Zhang Li, in particular, shines in her portrayal of Qi Yue, as she conveys both vulnerability and resilience, both self-doubt and determination. She also has a magnetic screen presence that captures the audience’s attention and empathy. Deng Chao, on the other hand, brings a charming and enigmatic aura to Fang Rong, as he alternates between being a mentor, a rival, and a love interest to Qi Yue.
Overall, How to Become Beautiful is a refreshing and meaningful movie that combines entertainment and inspiration. It celebrates the diversity and complexity of beauty as a concept and as a pursuit, and encourages viewers to embrace their own beauty and to seek beauty in others. It also reminds us that true beauty comes not from external adornment but from internal growth and transformation, and that anyone can become more beautiful by cultivating positive traits and values. How to become beautiful? Watch this movie and find out.