Synopsis
On their first encounter, late bloomer Chuang accidentally takes on the blame for schoolmate and distance runner Meng’s theft of a starting gun. Just before they become a little more acquainted with each other, Meng suddenly turns a cold shoulder to him. Lost in confusion, the go-with-the-flow boy determines to join Meng’s track team, risking his studies. With academic pressure adding to the puzzles of adolescence, all the juveniles study ferociously in preparation for the College Entrance Examination. At the commencement, Chuang walks onto the stage with his coming-of-age declaration…
Qu Youjia
QU Youjia, a filmmaker and photographer born in 1990, studied at the Beijing Film Academy and the Rhode Island School of Design. His debut short film, MEIJING, won several awards, including the Night Award at the Signes de Nuit festival. His second film, TOGETHER APART, won Best Short Film at the FIRST International Film Festival in Xining and was selected for the Bright Future Mid-length competition at IFFR. His next feature film project, LAVA, was presented at the Asian Project Market and the Berlinale Co-Production Market. His debut feature, SHE SAT THERE LIKE ALL ORDINARY ONES, premiered in Berlinale Generation and won the 14plus Special Mention Award.
Director's statement
“Youth” is a romantic description of the process of growing into adulthood. This story talks about a sloppy boy observing a stubborn girl. He sincerely hopes to help the other one who seems to be struggling. Eventually, he fails and starts to realize that every idea he holds is collapsing. Though, it is still precious to question and be questioned: “who are we”.
