Reviews

One would not expect too much from a film dedicated to a 50 anniversary of a country, as it is created for a governmental purpose hence predominantly doctrine. 7 letters, by using its unique perspective - focusing on little people's life, achieves far more than any grand production would do.

Through the narration of 7 independent stories of common people, directed by 7 directors, one actually understands in a more holistic way the cultural, historical, political, ethical and geographical elements that have been constructing and defining Singapore for the last 50 years and undoubtedly into future.

The film is good for past-time as each of the little story is engaging itself, but it is also educational, inspiring and touching. Singapre is uniquely made and defined not only by master thinkers such as Lee Kuan Yew and its regional economic influence, it is all the more, by little humble ones like you and me.

The story started with a stubborn retired widow who insisted her involvement in her two sons' life. Before viewers find this line a prototype depicting, a second layer of story was laid, a series of mysterious anonymous calls, brick breaking-in and garbage dropping disrupted the peaceful life of the widow and his sons' family. Naturally, the investigation of the intruder leads to a third layer, going beyond now, unveiling another disturbing story 40 years ago during the Cultural Revolution. Till now, all three layers' of stories, one paving way for the other, lead to the revealing moment of the intruder. It is a striking ending, as well as heavy and long-lasting.

The movie attempts to not only present a multifaceted portrait of the reality of Chinese society but also probe into its historical roots. Hence it is a rare treasure among its peers.