Director: Zhou Xinlei, Zhang Hao

Synopsis

Set in Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, this warm and realistic short film uses everyday conversations and small matters between an ordinary mother and daughter to express its theme: "To you, home is a place; to Mom, home is the time you are there." Differences in habits and ideas between two generations bring dramatic clashes to Zhang Yao's "filial journey" with her mother. The film draws on Chinese-style folk tune music, and through traditional scenes such as viewing lanterns in the old town, putting up Spring Festival couplets, making dumplings and rushing home for reunion, it creates a strong Spring Festival atmosphere, while also facing the working conditions that keep young people from going home and the pressure to marry. It records the warm yet sometimes explosive daily life of Zhang Yao, a career woman, and her mother, who arrives unexpectedly. Its true-to-life picture, at times a loving mother and dutiful daughter, at times utter chaos, resonates with young people today. Following mother and daughter, the camera shows city landmarks such as the classical Rongguo Mansion in Zhengding, street life on Zhengtai Square and the New Year lantern show at Wanli Temple. The mother's constant hints about marriage can freeze the cheerful mood in an instant. This city stroll across the generation gap is both a dialogue between tradition and modernity and a contest between family love and individuality. Everyday life holds the most touching stories of Chinese family love; amid life's surprises and romance, remember to save a share for Mom.