Reaching for the stars: 'Looking Up' debuts in Beijing
Updated 14:12, 16-Jul-2019
Hong Yaobin
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03:04

Chinese family saga "Looking Up", set to be released on July 18, showcases an "unconventional" Chinese father-son relationship, stirring a debate on what's most important in children's growth.

The film made its Beijing premiere on Sunday evening with the dazzling cast appearing on a star-studded red carpet and at post-screening meetings.

Co-directed by Chinese actor Deng Chao and Yu Baimei and screenplay written by Yu, the drama follows the ups and downs of a talented bridge designer, Ma Haowen, who is also a single father of Ma Fei.

The cast of Chinese family drama "Looking Up" attended the post-screening meeting in Beijing, China, July 14, 2019. /CGTN Photo

The cast of Chinese family drama "Looking Up" attended the post-screening meeting in Beijing, China, July 14, 2019. /CGTN Photo

The film stars Deng himself as Ma, while up-and-coming actor Bai Yu and child actors Sun Xilun and Feng Ze'ang, play the son as he grows up.

It starts with a touch-and-go situation in the space: Astronaut Ma Fei and his teammate lose connection with their base. In the chaos, Ma recalls his father and how he changed his life.

Mindsets and methods matter

A poster for "Looking Up". /Photo courtesy of Orange Image

A poster for "Looking Up". /Photo courtesy of Orange Image

Full of joy, tears, warmth, and wonder, "Looking Up" explores China’s exam-oriented education system, in which students are spoon-fed learning material by teachers to achieve high scores - these are considered the only ticket to top universities, a good career and comfortable life.

"Life is like shooting an arrow, dreams are the targets. What's the point of drawing the bow, if you can't find your target?" Ma tells his frustrated son, who is struggling in school.

The father deeply believes that mindsets and methods are more important than grades, and he keeps encouraging his son to dream big and focus on his own goals.

Deng Chao (C), co-director of the film "Looking Up," at the post-screening meeting in Beijing, China, July 14, 2019. /CGTN Photo

Deng Chao (C), co-director of the film "Looking Up," at the post-screening meeting in Beijing, China, July 14, 2019. /CGTN Photo

This is the third time Deng and Yu have worked together, but unlike their previous projects, this film is a serious, if high concept drama rather than a comedy.

"I didn't expect them to present us something like this, something that makes us think more," a viewer told CGTN.

The directors said they want to ask questions and make the audience think about what should be valued most during childhood in China.

Actor Bai Yu (L1) at the post-screening meeting, July 14, 2019. /CGTN Photo

Actor Bai Yu (L1) at the post-screening meeting, July 14, 2019. /CGTN Photo

Based on how the film plays out, it seems the directors strongly believe more imagination, persistence, and critical thinking are needed instead of rote learning.

"[How to help children to develop] critical thinking and individuality are what this generation of parents, like us, need to care more about," said a father, who watched the movie with his wife and daughter.

Unconventional and deeply resonant

Once the Sunday preview had finished, the audience revealed mixed thoughts. Many admitted that some tear-jerking moments deeply resonated with themselves.

Deng Chao (C) shares stories behind the scene. /CGTN Photo

Deng Chao (C) shares stories behind the scene. /CGTN Photo

"I have been crying for a while, because [it reminds me of] the relationship between my father and me. Parents and children should watch together," a viewer told CGTN, adding, "I want to invite my father to see it again."

"I've watched loads of films and this title is something special," said another, noting that this is "because it presents non-traditional images of Chinese fathers and sons."

"It is a little bit opposite, actually," she said, sharing three keywords about the film: "Emotional, unconventional, and determined."

The film crew hailing from different countries, such as Britain, Russia and India, at the screening in Beijing, China, July 14, 2019. /Photo courtesy of Orange Image

The film crew hailing from different countries, such as Britain, Russia and India, at the screening in Beijing, China, July 14, 2019. /Photo courtesy of Orange Image

However, some critics thought it was overdramatic and too sensational, with a lot of the plot points feeling contrived and a supporting cast that isn't given enough material to work with.

They include new stars like actress Wang Xi, as well as seasoned actors, such as actress Ren Suxi and actor Li Jianyi. Superstar Wu Jing, best known for his appearances in "Wolf Warrior 2" and "The Wandering Earth," appears in the Brad Pitt role as a co-producer who also has an important cameo.

There's also an international aspect to the film as world-famous composer Hans Zimmer contributed the score and it was edited by Ballu Saluja, a big name in Indian cinema, best known for his work on the smash hit "Dangal" in 2016.

Reporter: Hong Yaobin

Videographers: Guo Yuanheng, Hong Yaobin

Video editor: Hong Yaobin

Cover image designer: Liu Shaozhen