Comedy drama Being Towards Death, directed by Chen Sicheng of blockbuster franchise Detective Chinatown, has been acquired by Trinity CineAsia for release in the UK.
The distributor secured the rights from Beijing-based Blossoms Entertainment and is set to release in select Odeon UK cinemas on June 5.
The film opened in mainland China on May 1, during the Labour Day holiday, and was selected for the main competition at this year’s Beijing International Film Festival.
It marks the first foray into comedy drama from Chen, known for directing commercial hits such as the Detective Chinatown franchise and producing thrillers including Lost In The Stars and Sheep Without A Shepherd.
The story follows a man who has survived a failed suicide attempt and is left drowning in debt. Desperate for work, he takes a job as a caregiver in a hospice where his role is to provide mental support to terminally ill patients. Surrounded by people who refuse to let illness define them, he becomes involved in their last wishes and turns an ambulance into a tour bus to set off on an adventure.
The ensemble cast combines a new generation of comedy talent with established screen actors, led by Jiang Long, Qi Xi, former Rocket Girls 101 member Yang Chaoyue and Wang Zichuan. Supporting performances include acclaimed veteran actor Ni Dahong (The Assassin) and celebrated comedy actress Cai Ming. Filmmakers Jia Zhangke and Guan Hu also make guest appearances.
Producers are Beijing As One Pictures, Maoyan Pictures and Kunshan Zhouzhuang Shuangqiao Film.
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