Pierce
Zijie, a young fencer, clings to the belief in his older brother Zihan’s innocence, even after Zihan’s conviction for killing an opponent during a fencing match. When Zihan returns home after 7 years in juvenile prison, Zijie secretly helps him adjust to life outside, keeping it hidden from their mother. In return, Zihan begins to train Zijie in fencing, transforming his skills and securing him a spot in the upcoming National Championships. However, as their bond deepens, Zihan’s violent and sociopathic tendencies begin to surface, forcing Zijie to question everything he thought he knew. Is his idealised vision of his brother nothing more than a dangerous illusion?
Pierce is an elegant and deeply affecting psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of unconditional sibling love. With gripping tension, nuanced storytelling, and striking cinematography, it marks an impressive directorial debut from Nelicia Low.