Rice Rhapsody 2004

The film unfolds in Singapore’s Chinatown and is narrated by Jen Fan, Sylvia Chang, the owner of a thriving restaurant known for its signature chicken rice. Jen’s life centers on her three sons—Daniel, Harry, and Leo—and on a firm wish that Leo won’t follow in the footsteps of his brothers. To steer Leo, she enlists her friend Kim-Chui, Martin Yan, who runs a duck rice restaurant and is in love with her. Leo has become Jen’s world, and she pins all hopes of grandchildren on him. Together, they hatch a plan to bring Sabine, Mélanie Laurent, a French exchange student, to stay at Jen’s house.

When Sabine arrives, Leo, LePham Tan in the role of Leo, shows little interest, but it becomes painfully clear to all except Jen that Leo is in love with his best friend Batman, Andy Mok. Sabine is laid-back and mystical in her outlook, and the family warms to her. It is she who ultimately helps Jen come to terms with her life.

When Batman suddenly announces that he is leaving Singapore, Jen finally realises the truth from Leo’s grief-stricken face and strikes him in fury. As he leaves the house, she falls down the stairs chasing him, injuring her ankle.

Some time later Jen, persuaded by Sabine, attends Harry’s birthday party, Craig Toh where she meets many of Harry’s gay friends, and she finds them delightful and fun. Another obstacle she must overcome is news of Daniel’s impending gay marriage; she is horrified and cannot accept it. The film ends with Jen finally realising how wonderful her sons truly are. She may also consider a future with the ever loyal Kim-Chui, but this is left open.