In a future where humans can no longer dream, a lost monster and a mysterious woman who sees through illusions—can you believe this setup?
This Chinese sci-fi film, set to premiere at the Cannes Film Festival, is already blowing minds with its premise alone. But don’t mistake it for some low-budget "sci-fi flick"—this is The Wild Years, the latest work from award-winning director Bi Gan.
So, what makes this film so intriguing? First, its creative team is nothing short of breathtaking. Bi Gan, a darling of the international arthouse scene, has already made waves with his previous works Kaili Blues and Long Day’s Journey Into Night. And the cast? Even more thrilling—top-tier actor Yi Yangqianxi teams up with screen goddess Shu Qi, a pairing that’s got everyone buzzing.
Let’s be clear: Yi Yangqianxi isn’t just another pop idol-turned-actor. From Better Days to The Battle at Lake Changjin, this Gen-Z star has proven his acting chops time and again. Now, in The Wild Years, he’s taking on his most challenging role yet.
The recently released international trailer is nothing short of stunning. In just 51 seconds, it masterfully blends futuristic sci-fi aesthetics with gripping suspense. The cinematography alone—with its bold use of light and shadow—has left viewers in awe, with many saying, "Just the trailer feels overwhelmingly intense."
But the real excitement? The film has just been selected for the Main Competition at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, making it the only Chinese-language film in this year’s lineup. That alone is a massive win for Chinese cinema.
And the backstory behind its production is just as dramatic. Reportedly, The Wild Years wrapped filming on April 8, with Bi Gan racing against the clock to finish editing. When Cannes unveiled its lineup on April 10 and 23, the film was nowhere to be seen. Yet, against all odds, it stormed into the Main Competition as a dark horse—a true underdog miracle.
The film will have its world premiere on May 22 at Cannes’ Grand Théâtre Lumière, clocking in at an epic 160 minutes. Buckle up—this is one wild ride you won’t want to miss.