Elizabeth Lo: A deep dive into infidelity and human connections in “Mistress Dispeller”

In a thought-provoking interview, Elizabeth Lo, the director of “Mistress Dispeller”, Orizzonti section, offers her insights into the film, which intimately examines lives entangled in marital infidelity. The film follows Wang Zhenxi, a professional “mistress dispeller” in China, who helps couples preserve their marriages by ending extramarital affairs. Lo’s storytelling takes the audience on a gripping journey filled with emotion, pragmatism, and cultural nuances, exploring the dynamics of a love triangle.

The origin of the story

The concept for the film originated from Lo‘s observations of relationships and the roles people play within them. “I’ve always loved love stories. Growing up in Hong Kong, the romance section of the movie rental store always captivated me,” she explains. However, her own experiences of love—marked by sacrifice and unspoken duties—differed significantly from the idealized visions seen in films. By focusing on infidelity, she sought to portray genuine emotions and the intricate realities behind romantic relationships.

A unique profession: the mistress dispeller

Lo sheds light on the emergence of the mistress-dispelling profession, which has gained popularity in response to rising rates of infidelity in modern China. “This industry allows women to infiltrate the lives of mistresses, often without those involved realizing the full extent of the situation,” she reveals. “For a fee, these professionals are hired to gain the mistresses’ confidence and influence them to end the affair willingly.” This unique perspective explores not only the nuances of human connection in intimate relationships but also highlights the societal pressures surrounding fidelity.

Multiple perspectives in storytelling

Throughout the film, Lo captures the unfolding drama from multiple perspectives, shifting sympathies between the husband, wife, and mistress. “I aimed to create a Rashomon-inspired narrative where each character’s perspective influences the audience’s understanding of the unfolding events,” she states. This layered storytelling allows viewers to empathize with each character’s motivations and struggles, creating a rich emotional tapestry.

Challenges in capturing authenticity

The director’s commitment to authenticity is evident in the production process, where she faced several challenges in documenting a real mistress-dispelling case. “Establishing trust with our subjects was paramount,” Lo notes. She and her team meticulously built relationships with Teacher Wang and her associates to ensure the documentary captured genuine interactions and emotional exchanges. The artistic tension in the film is heightened by the ethical considerations of filming individuals navigating personal crises, allowing the audience to witness vulnerable moments leading to crucial revelations.

The complexity of love

One of the film’s pivotal themes revolves around the complexity of love and its many forms. “While many may view love through a traditional lens, it is essential to explore the varying dynamics and emotional turmoil that accompany it,” Lo states. “Each character’s experience reflects the societal and personal intricacies that influence their decisions.”

The role of music and visuals

Lo expertly weaves the soundtrack and visual elements of the film to enhance its emotional depth. “We chose music that spans across genres