Hou Hsiao Hsien attempts to create a new film language with which to express himself for a new millennium. His first filmic attempt to do just that is Millennium Mambo. The film is about a woman, Vicky, who wants to escape from her lover, Hao-Hao, whom she feels is overly jealous and protective. Through this film, Hou seems a bit freed from the historical themes with which he has been closely associated until now. Perhaps this is why the film starts so jubilantly. However, it seems he is not fully successful in parting with his past. Even in this film about two young people, the weight of history--especially in Hou′s use of space--can nevertheless be felt. In particular, the use of space effectively depicts Vicky′s mental state of wanting to be free. The director does not allow his main character her redemption. When Vicky finds herself standing in an empty space, the viewer is left with a suggestion that perhaps it was not Hao-Hao who shackled her, but something else. The director only suggests, refusing to give an answer. Hou Hsiao Hsien′s new millennium begins with a gloomy, yet penetrating tale. (Kim Ji-Seok)