Being a bit of a movie buff, I enjoy watching classic black-and-white films. Recently, I came across an unexpected tea connection in one of them.
The film Three Strangers includes a subtle reference that tea enthusiasts may recognize right away.
Three steepings from the same Tie Guan Yin tea leaves
The Movie Connection
The story follows three strangers brought together by a woman for a shared ritual: each must wish for the same outcome—in this case, winning a lottery.
As their lives unfold, each faces personal struggles and moral challenges before their fates converge again.
Central to this ritual is a Chinese idol—none other than Kwan Yin (also spelled Kuan Yin).
The Tea Connection
Kwan Yin is widely known as the “Iron Goddess of Mercy.” In tea lore, she is associated with one of the most famous oolong teas: Tie Guan Yin (often written Ti Kuan Yin).
Legend tells that a farmer, guided by Kwan Yin, cultivated a tea plant near her temple, eventually producing a remarkable tea.
Today, Tie Guan Yin remains one of the most celebrated oolong teas.
About Tie Guan Yin Oolong
Oolong teas are semi-oxidized, placing them between green and black teas. They are known for their complex flavors and multiple infusion potential.
The processing of oolong involves:
- Withering the leaves in the sun
- Shaking or tossing them to bruise the edges
- Partial oxidation (edges oxidize faster than centers)
- Firing to stop oxidation and lock in flavor
This careful processing creates a distinctive balance of floral, vegetal, and sometimes lightly roasted notes.
Brewing Tips
For best results, Tie Guan Yin should be brewed:
- Water temperature: 165–190°F (light boil)
- Steep time: 1–3 minutes
The resulting infusion is light in body with a pale green-yellow color. The flavor may begin slightly sharp, then evolve into a smooth, sweet finish with a lingering aroma.
These leaves can also be steeped multiple times, with each infusion revealing new layers of character.
Final Thoughts
It’s always fun to discover unexpected tea connections in everyday places—even classic films.
So next time you’re watching an old movie, keep an eye out—you never know when tea might make a surprise appearance.
See this comparison of several versions of this oolong.
See more of A.C. Cargill’s articles here.
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