Focusing on the exploration of innovative types, an expert symposium on -Safe Entry and Exit- was held

On October 13, a panel discussion was held in Beijing regarding the film “Safe Passage.” The event was co-hosted by the China Film Critics Association and the special fund for film criticism development of the China Film Foundation, among others.

“Safe Passage,” featuring actors like Xiao Yang, Ayunga, Gulnazar, and Huang Xiaolei, is based on a true story. It depicts the harrowing journey of death row inmate Zheng Ligun, who faces an earthquake while being transported. The film explores the moral dilemmas of Zheng and other prisoners alongside police officer Wei Chi Xiao, as they work together to rescue victims of the disaster, providing a nuanced examination of human nature under extreme circumstances. This film marks Liu Jiangjiang’s second directorial venture following “Life Matters.”

During the discussion, experts praised the film’s innovative genre exploration, character development, and humanistic themes. They also offered various suggestions and support for the film’s promotional efforts moving forward.

Liu Jiangjiang shared insights into his creative process, mentioning the extensive time spent on conceptualizing the film. He decided to structure it as a “road movie” with a contrasting dramatic premise, aiming to craft a unique disaster film. The narrative features a rescue team made up of police and prisoners navigating various disaster sites, highlighting their humanity during dark times. Liu also incorporated many folk cultural elements to reflect “the Chinese way of finding solace and values when facing difficulties and death.” He acknowledged that the film has its imperfections but emphasized the importance of finding hope in adversity. “I believe we are on a journey of growth,” Liu concluded.

Gulnazar, who plays the lead role of Mu Chuntao, expressed how moved she was by her character’s resilience and willingness to confront fate. “It’s a privilege to be part of Mu Chuntao’s story,” she noted.

Similarly, Huang Xiaolei, portraying the healthcare worker Bai Su’e, found her character compelling for her high adversity quotient and calmness under pressure, which she believes reveals the warmest and most independent aspects of human nature.

Hu Bo, General Manager of the Changjiang Group’s Venture Capital Center and a representative of the production team, remarked that the film’s true historical context resonated deeply with him. “This is a history few know about,” he stated, highlighting that the film does not overly dramatize disaster scenes or indulge in heroism, opting instead for a restrained lens that captures the characters’ vibrant humanity.

Rao Shuguang, President of the China Film Critics Association, commented on the film’s high level of production and script quality, underscoring its portrayal of humanity’s brilliance and great love in the face of disaster. He noted the strong dramatic tension and the fresh dynamic between the protagonists, with comedic elements alleviating some of the film’s weighty themes and enriching its metaphors about life and death.

Zhang Baiqing, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Arts and Honorary President of the China Film Critics Association, described the film as courageous, blending disaster and art in a novel way. He emphasized its focus on history and the broader discussions surrounding human nature, saying, “It evokes tears in its calmness without shying away from the earthquake’s devastation, embodying the charm of realism.”

Lai Peikang, former Deputy Director of the Film Bureau of the National Radio and Television Administration, pointed out that “Safe Passage” shines a light on human kindness and noble love amid disaster. He highlighted four contrasting elements within the film— the juxtaposition of police and prisoners, two weddings before and after the earthquake, the moral clash between two death row inmates, and the continuation of life amid death— all of which provide a literary touch.

Having premiered on September 30 and then announced its withdrawal from release on October 3, Zhu Yuqing, Vice President of the Industry Evaluation Committee of the China Film Critics Association and founder of Juyinghui, concluded that “Safe Passage” has great depth and impact, emphasizing the need to redefine its target audience and precisely identify points of connection with viewers as it moves forward.