Fei works illegally as a hustler in order to support his family, yet when he realizes they are willing to accept his money but not his way of life, there is a major breakdown in their relations. Through his relationship with the headstrong Long, Fei seems able to find a new lease on life, but then he encounters Xiaolai, the love of his youth, who confronts him with the guilt of his repressed past.
C.B. Yi’s debut feature is both restrained and deeply moving. The cinematography by Jean-Louis Vialard captures Fei’s isolation through distant framing and muted color palettes. Long shots emphasize his loneliness, while dimly lit interiors reflect his internal struggles. The film’s neon-drenched visuals contrast with its contemplative, melancholic tone, reflecting Fei’s dual existence—both as a vibrant, desirable hustler and an emotionally detached outsider.
The narrative unfolds across multiple timelines, showcasing Fei’s transformation from a naïve young hustler to a hardened survivor. His family remains a central source of pain and motivation. When Fei returns home, his presence is met with hypocrisy and rejection:
“By the way, when you get a chance, give Dad a call. Tell him he shouldn’t drink so much. Though he never says it, I know he misses you.”
Despite this, Fei’s father and extended family cannot accept his reality:
“You dare show your face to your grandpa? You realize he’s sick because you made him so mad!”
These moments expose the stark contrast between Fei’s unwavering support for his family and their conditional love. While they are happy to accept his financial contributions, they refuse to acknowledge his identity, pushing him further into isolation.
Fei’s dynamic with Long provides a brief respite from loneliness. Long follows him to the city, creating a new kind of companionship, Their bond, however, is tested by Fei’s emotional detachment. Xiaolai’s return further complicates matters, as Fei is forced to confront his past and unresolved feelings. The film’s pacing deliberately mirrors Fei’s internal resistance to emotional intimacy, making it both frustrating and deeply poignant.
Moneyboys (2021) tackles themes of identity, acceptance, and economic survival. The film highlights the paradox of a society that benefits from the labor of marginalized individuals while refusing to acknowledge their humanity. It also sheds light on the unspoken realities of arranged marriages and the lengths LGBTQ+ individuals go to in order to fit in.
“Xiangdong did it right. He quit after earning enough money. He finds a fake marriage to keep his family satisfied.”
This dialogue underscores the societal expectation for men to conform, regardless of personal truth. Fei, however, remains unwilling to follow that path, even if it means continued rejection and solitude.
If you are looking for an gay film that breaks away from clichés and offers a nuanced exploration of love and survival, Moneyboys (2021) is a must-watch. It is a visually stunning, deeply affecting drama that lingers long after the credits roll. However, its deliberate pacing and emotionally distanced style make it best suited for viewers who appreciate contemplative storytelling.
