China's far western the Taklamakan Basin seems a world away from the bustling metropolis of the east coast. Now Chinese filmmaker Wang Lina has made her debut by bringing the lives of Uygur children to the big screen in her film "A First Farewell."

Although the movie dives into serious topics like divorce and schooling, Wang embellishes the film with slices of life episodes that add depth. One such episode involves an old Uygur laying a blanket to catch mulberries. She uses this episode to present traditional beliefs, "It is said that when a child eats some mulberries, they will feel sweet for the whole day."

Wang certainly made bold choices in the production process. "This film took nearly 4 years to shoot because the cast consisted of non-professional child actors," she says.

But Wang was confident that a lack of experience could be compensated for by authenticity. "Through this film, I can authentically present the most direct feelings and imprints of time."

The film follows two families, with the protagonists being two children, Kalbinur and Isa. These young protagonists provide heroes for young viewers but also allow adults to recall their own traditions, hopes and dreams.

Wang's dedication to her subjects is reflected in her knowledge of their food, dance and their sources of joy. While the actors enjoy Big Plate Chicken and ballads, the courtyard is where they congregate and have fun. 

She says, "Their favorite place is the courtyard where they play host to many visitors. Every evening they invite folk musicians from the village and dance the Messilef together. The nights in the courtyard are when they are happiest."

Wang, originally from Xinjiang herself, feels the film is a dedication to her hometown and childhood. "This is in effect a long poem dedicated to my hometown and childhood," she says.

"I continue to use my camera and shoot. Because it's the life of ordinary people. The film captures the warmth of this land. It rekindles nostalgic memories from my childhood. It's as if my childhood still lives on this land. So I want to convey this emotion on screen."  

The film has already gained critical acclaim, winning the Crystal Bear Award at the Berlin Film Festival and the Asian Future Best Film Award at Tokyo International Film Festival. With this inspiring success, it may imply more of her works are waiting for us.

World Insight with Tian Wei is an international platform for debate and intelligent discussion. It is the meeting point of both the highly influential and rising voices, facilitated by host, Tian Wei. It provides nutrition to form your own thoughts and ideas through 45-minute live debate and interviews.

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Time (GMT): 1415, 2015

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