A Chinese co-production Independent film
/ the girl from the yellow mountains
AIGUO YING - CO-AUTHOR's STATEMENT
Dan invited me to collaborate on a script featuring a Chinese woman and a Western man, and I eagerly accepted. "CL28" became a journey not only for Rulan returning to her roots, but also for Adam's personal growth.
As we crafted the story, Dan and I found parallels between our own lives and those of our characters. Drawing from real-life experiences,
such as adoption or late-stage abortions, added authenticity to the script.
Despite potential controversy, I defended these elements as reflecting the realities I know. The film's settings, including modern Chinese towns and New York City, hold personal significance, with the Yellow Mountains serving as a tribute to a (my) second hometown.
"CL28" explores themes of longing and belonging that resonate universally,
and I eagerly anticipate its impact on audiences
DAN THORENS - DIRECTOR / CO-AUTHOR'S STATEMENT
"CL28" is more than just a number—it's the story of Rulan & Adam, two flawed individuals who oddly find solace and support in each other's company. Amidst cultural contrasts and personal struggles, they navigate themes of integrity, family, and the quest for identity.
The story aims to bridge East and West while celebrating the richness of Chinese and Western cinema.
With humor and heart, "CL28" offers a unique perspective on how our differences can enrich us and the transformative power of cross-cultural connections.
As someone deeply enamoured with Asian culture, this story holds a special place in my heart. GIven the rise of recent anti-Asian sentiment it's not just a story; it's an essential one, a tribute to the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit, inspired by my own experiences and those of comprehend and embrace the world in its diversity.
Thanks to Aiguo Ying's perspective, the movie invites audiences to live out authentic exchanges with heartfelt moments and experience China and the Western world in a way that transcends stereotypes.
My sincere hope is that will offer a genuine glimpse into what unites us as humans, so we can begin changing our perspective by removing the tree that hides the forest.
