Xizang-themed road movie to explore family bonds through children's journey

A new Xizang-themed children's road-trip film is currently in production, showcasing China's ethnic minority traditions while exploring themes of life and death.

Panelists pose for a photo during an expert session to discuss the script development for "Zang Ba La" in Beijing, May 12, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

The film "Zang Ba La," written by Li Muyu and directed by Zhang Zhong, follows a 12-year-old Xizang boy and his half-sister on a journey to the sacred land of Zang Ba La to fulfill their grandmother's dying wish.

The film explores family betrayal, reconciliation, and redemption through the perspective of children, set against Xizang’s landscapes and cultural traditions.

The creative team conducted extensive research across southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region and Sichuan province, visiting local families and documenting cultural details to authentically portray life in Xizang in the script. 

During a script development session on May 12 in Beijing, panelists praised the screenplay's portrayal of ethnic cultural elements while offering feedback on script development and directorial approach.

Director Zhang Zhong emphasized at the panel that this project examines children's understanding of life and death, blending themes of children's growth, family ethics, and cultural heritage. He said the creative team will carefully incorporate expert feedback to refine the script, delivering a philosophically rich yet heartwarming cinematic experience.

The script development session was organized by the film script planning and development center of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee. Qin Zhengui, the film script center director, presided over the session.

Panelists included Wu Cuiying, president of China Promoting Minority Culture & Arts Association; Hou Keming, president of China Children's Film Association and Beijing Film Academy professor; Suo Yabin, professor at the Communication University of China; and Tian Huiqun, Beijing Normal University professor.

Participants reviewed the script's themes, structure, characters and cultural elements, suggesting refinements before filming begins.