Singaporean actor Mark Lee, known for his comedic roles and versatility, is currently promoting his latest film, Uncle Odyssey, a Taiwanese comedy exploring midlife dreams and the unexpected path to viral fame. But beyond the promotional circuit, Lee has been offering a candid glimpse into his personal life, specifically his relationship with his 12-year-old daughter, Calynn. His observations, shared during interviews with Taiwanese media, resonate with a universal experience for many parents: the often-complex dynamic of affection and distance with growing children.
Lee, 57, plays Chu Sheng in Uncle Odyssey, a Malaysian man who relocates to Taiwan, navigates marriage and divorce, and ultimately finds himself reconnecting with his daughter as he enters middle age. The role, he says, struck a chord, prompting reflection on his own paternal role. He described Chu Sheng as embodying the “traditional Asian father” archetype – a man who struggles to outwardly express his love and often defaults to a stoic demeanor, even when deeply proud. According to Zaobao, Lee believes this resonates with many fathers who identify it difficult to verbalize their feelings.
A Familiar “Long Face”
It’s this theme of unspoken affection that led Lee to discuss his relationship with Calynn. He revealed that his daughter often mirrors the reserved emotional expression of his on-screen character. “She always gives me a long face,” Lee explained, adding that attempts at physical affection – a handhold or a pat on the shoulder – are often met with a direct, unwavering glare. This observation, initially shared with Taiwanese media, has quickly gained traction, sparking conversations about generational differences in expressing love and the evolving parent-child dynamic.
Still, Lee emphasized that Calynn’s apparent aloofness isn’t a rejection of affection, but rather her unique way of showing it. He recounted a common scenario: while watching television, she’ll quietly sit beside him, a bag of potato chips in hand, and casually offer the entire bag his way – a nonverbal invitation to share. This subtle gesture, he says, speaks volumes. “Sometimes you find it very funny and heartwarming, but when she glares at you, you feel annoyed,” Lee admitted. “But when you get annoyed, you can’t express your anger because it’s part of her personality.”
Navigating On-Set Dynamics
Uncle Odyssey marks Lee’s first collaboration with Taiwanese actress Pei-jia. The experience, he shared, presented its own set of challenges. Lee described Pei-jia’s acting style as incredibly subtle, almost whispered, requiring him to strain to hear her lines. “I felt a bit of pressure acting with her, because she speaks very softly as if she’s talking to an ant,” he joked. He recounted several takes where he thought she had finished her dialogue, only to realize she was continuing in a barely audible tone. The film’s trailer offers a glimpse into the dynamic, showcasing the comedic interplay between the three lead actors.
The film itself centers around three middle-aged men – played by Lee, Christopher Lee, and Hsu Hsiao-shun – who unexpectedly find themselves going viral through livestreaming. Christopher Lee, also promoting the film, discussed the physical demands of portraying his character, revealing he deliberately altered his physique to embody an “old man.” He explained that he enjoys adapting his body to fit the requirements of each role, but acknowledged that maintaining different physiques becomes more challenging with age. Zaobao reported that Lee lamented the slowing of his metabolism, noting it’s “straightforward to gain weight but losing it takes time.”
The Pursuit of Dreams in Midlife
Uncle Odyssey isn’t simply a comedy; it’s a story about second chances and the pursuit of dreams, regardless of age. The film explores the challenges and triumphs of navigating midlife, finding purpose, and embracing unexpected opportunities. The livestreaming element adds a contemporary layer, reflecting the growing influence of social media and the potential for anyone to find an audience. The film’s premise taps into a growing cultural conversation about redefining success and challenging conventional notions of aging.
The film’s exploration of father-daughter relationships, as highlighted by Lee’s personal anecdotes, adds another layer of emotional resonance. His willingness to share these intimate details offers a relatable perspective on the complexities of family dynamics and the enduring power of unspoken love. It’s a reminder that affection often manifests in unexpected ways, and that sometimes, a “long face” can be a sign of love just as potent as a warm embrace.
Uncle Odyssey is scheduled to open in Singapore theaters on April 16. The film promises a blend of humor, heart, and a poignant exploration of the human experience. Following its release, Lee and his co-stars are expected to continue their promotional tour, offering further insights into the film and their respective characters.
What are your thoughts on the film? Share your comments below and let us grasp if you plan to see Uncle Odyssey when it hits theaters.
