Film 'Best Friend' shines light on autism with compassion and warmth

The new film "Best Friend" premiered in Beijing on Dec. 3, showcasing its creators' deep regard for young people on the autism spectrum.

Cast and crew pose for a photo on stage at the premiere of "Best Friend" in Beijing, Dec. 3, 2025. [Photo courtesy of China Film Group]

Directed by Song Zhuofei and starring Yang Zhihe, Duan Aojuan and Jyo Kairi, the film tells the story of Zhao Fei, a reclusive high school student, who unexpectedly enters the lives of Xia Tian, a teenager with autism, and his sister Xia Qiu. The storyline follows the three as they grow with one another through companionship and friction.

The audience follows the storyline through a lens that encourages understanding of the autism community. Throughout the narrative, the film weaves a profound sense of social awareness, striving to convey empathy through visuals.

"I feel this movie is about 'removing labels,'" said director Song. "Human beings are actually very complex, and each individual is very different. The same goes for the autism community. So this film also explores a deeper theme, which is 'mutual understanding.' I hope it can help everyone understand this community better and support a more inclusive environment for them."

Young actor Yang Zhihe said his interactions with children on the spectrum left a deep impression. "After spending time with them, you realize they are essentially the same as us, just with different ways of expressing themselves," he noted. "I hope this film can help more people 'see' and understand this community."

Actor Duan Aojuan described the "quiet yet powerful" traits of her character, whose love for her brother is reflected in subtle details, representing a sister's respect and protectiveness.

Wu Chao and Ni Jingyang, who portrayed the parents in the film, added a deeper layer of realism. Wu spoke on his role as the father, "It truly allowed me to step into the world of families with autism. I met many parents of children on the spectrum, and they are truly remarkable."

Ni offered a nuanced interpretation of the relationship between mother and son, saying, "The relationship reminds us that every child is an independent individual. I hope that starting with me, every parent can communicate better with their children and respect them."

During a post-screening discussion, Jia Meixiang said "the autism community is a vulnerable group. I hope that everyone who watches this film can contribute a little strength to make the world a more hopeful and joyful place." Jia is the chief physician at Peking University Sixth Hospital and chairwoman of the autism rehabilitation committee of the China Association of Rehabilitation of Disabled Persons. She also said "this is a very youthful and positive film" which was further highlighted by the attendance of two young people on the autism spectrum. They both gave the film a thumbs up, with one actually appearing in the film. His performance impressed the director and crew, and he also mentioned he was very excited and gained a lot from the experience.  

A representative from the Business Development Center of the Red Cross Society of China presents director Song Zhuofei and actors Yang Zhihe and Duan Aojuan with "Charity Ambassador" certificates at the premiere of "Best Friend" in Beijing, Dec. 3, 2025. [Photo courtesy of China Film Group]

At the end of the premiere, a representative from the Business Development Center of the Red Cross Society of China presented director Song Zhuofei and actors Yang Zhihe and Duan Aojuan with "Charity Ambassador" certificates. The film's release on Dec. 5 coincided with International Volunteer Day.

After receiving the honors, the creators affirmed that it was not just an award but a lasting responsibility. They pledged to continue using their public platform to raise awareness for the autism community and to take tangible action to "make the world a little brighter."