Recommended Taiwan film - The Young Hoodlum (Xiao Zi)

The 15th Cross-Strait Film Exhibition is being held in Ya'an, Sichuan province, on May 27 to 31. Eight films from Taiwan province are expected to be showcased during the event, including The Young Hoodlum (Xiao Zi).

A scene from the film The Young Hoodlum (Xiao Zi)

The Young Hoodlum (Xiao Zi) is being aired on May 29. It is the first feature film of director Yu Jhi Han, who has been nominated for multiple international film festivals for his previous short films.

Yu Jhi Han, director of the film The Young Hoodlum (Xiao Zi)

This film delves into the profound theme of teenage crime, unraveling the truth behind collective criminal activities through a kidnapping case. It portrays the intricate conflicts of "bad" boys and girls who yearn for love but find themselves entangled in irresolvable dilemmas.

"Before filming this movie, I had a rather simplistic view of the world, believing that success could be achieved through hard work and that dedication would be recognized. However, after making this film, I truly realized that there is a group of young people in this world who are disadvantaged from the start. They do not have the luxury of making choices because they have never had the opportunity to choose; this is their everyday reality. While we debate what is 'bad' and what is 'good,' more often than not, these young people simply navigate each day based on their circumstances. I see them as seemingly wayward but fundamentally kindhearted boys. Through this film, if we can all experience a life we never imagined, then I am content," said Yu.