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Asian Shadows has picked up Chinese helmer Huang Ruosong’s drama “Chasing the Sun,” which will make its world premiere at the Swiss documentary festival Visions du Réel, where it is competing in the more experimental Burning Lights section.
Set in China, “Chasing the Sun” is described as a snapshot of the young generation in contemporary Chinese society, which is gradually losing its judgment under the pressure of family and society, while a strong sense of frustration grows. The story is inspired by the Chinese literary classic “Dream of the Red Chamber”.
Helmer Huang graduated from the Communication University of China and from La Fémis in France with a major in directing and to date has directed several short films in France, Argentina and Vietnam.
“So thrilled to be partnering with Asian Shadows to bring “Chasing the Sun” to the attention of the international audience. Their deep understanding of independent filmmaking and commitment to meaningful storytelling make them an incredible partner,” Huang said.
“Through my film, I hope to bring out the real plight of young Chinese, as a way to understand the times in which we live,” Huang said.
After five years of studying abroad, Peng Tian returns to his hometown, embarking on a new promising adventure while still facing a life controlled by his mother. Although the city is built with fancy buildings and rivers passing through, behind the rapid development, Peng Tian finds out he still lives in a very traditional family.
He and his friends have to deal with arranged jobs, arranged marriages, and arranged childbirth. In order to escape it, Peng Tian joins a risky investment made by his friend San Pao, trying to find a way to freedom simply by making money. But what seems to be a logical impulsive choice, it eventually makes Peng Tian blend into the ancient society that he struggles to integrate in. He has to face the tough reality that forces him to adapt to a world that he doesn’t recognize anymore and that makes him feel like a stranger in his own homeland.
Maria A. Ruggieri, head of sales and acquistions at Asian Shadows, liked the idea of being surprised by visions and styles that differ from anything we have seen before.
“Huang’s vision translates undetected feelings and repressed emotions. His portrait of the young Chinese generation decodes the complexity of the social and cultural dynamics. His sense of reality interestingly embraces a sense of fiction. It’s a great pleasure to be challenged by Huang’s filmmaking,” she said.
The festival at Nyon runs April 4-13.
