Reflections

College student Ming takes off on his bike for a seven-day trip to circle the island of Taiwan, relying on his wits and the kindness of strangers along the way. A lyrical film composed of random encounters and small moments, ISLAND ETUDE, captures that romantic period in life when one is free to roam and seek adventure. Ming never gives any real reason for his trip other than that he would never be able to do it if he doesn't seize the chance now, and he simply leaves it at that, for the joy of internal satisfaction. As much as it sounds like a cliché, the audience is left to focus on the journey rather than the destination.

Living in a desert, I appreciate the greenery, the frequent raindrops on pavement and roof, and the ocean waves as Ming bikes along the coastline. My favorite moment is of a family sharing a picnic with Ming. The father quotes from a story I treasure.

"In the morning the sun’s golden rays glitter on the ocean. Thousands of seagulls came out for food, fighting over a tiny fish or bread crumbs. Shrieking and shouting, no one would budge. Jonathon was disgusted by it. He left them behind, practicing flying alone, pursuing an ideal.

The daughter asks, ‘Dad, what are you reciting?’

He names the book telling her she will read it in the sixth grade. He continues, ‘Jonathon is a very special seagull. He’d rather be alone pursuing his ideal. Practices alone. Ignores others ridicule. His only hope is to fly higher, farther and with style.

This is a visually restful movie. One should seize the chance to be like Ming. Watch this movie for no other reason than internal satisfaction.