Beijing filmmaker pays tribute to his past – while studying in New York

A growing number of Chinese filmmakers are shining on the world stage, and some are not renowned directors or actors – just people who turn resolutions into reality, Zhang Xingjian reports.

Wang Hanxuan's dream of producing a film of his own and winning recognition has come true, as the 19-year-old just received the news that his latest work has been shortlisted in the Rome Prisma Independent Film Awards 2019.

"The moment I received the big news, I just went wild with joy. I knew that my efforts have been worthwhile," Wang told China Daily.

The young filmmaker is studying in New York, and the nominated film, Chasing Shadows, is based on his personal experiences.

The film revolves around the story of Shao, a nostalgic man, who indulges in the past.

The old days become more mysterious as he tries to recall all the details from memory. And he wants to go back to the summer when he was sixteen, and lives in his memory forever.

Even if he gradually realizes the betrayals and breakups in that summer, he chooses to forget them and embrace the past he believes in.

"The movie is my tribute to my invaluable past memories, but people can never be sure if their memories can wholly represent the true past," he said.