Review of In the Absence of the Sun

Three stories of strong women in an Asian metropolis. Trouble with traffic, men and diversity are the backdrop for highly individual tales with subtle links. The night starts with the preparations for different kinds of encounters where the anticipation of the viewer gets influenced by the backgrounds (gym receptionist, wife of a late dignitary) of the main characters. As the activities start unfolding, the various back stories and conflictuous relations are laid out. High points are mostly in face-to-face interactions between the main actresses and a prospective boyfriend, a male prostitute or youth culture and its typical fads clashing with a more intimate privacy, offered by many Western cities (e.g. New York City). Finally, the night draws to a close and stories find an end or a new beginning, with the speed and bustle of the city a constant and rich tapestry.