Little Girl Like A Sunflower

The children's film "Little Girl Like A Sunflower" is adapted from the novel of the same name by author Shua Shua. Set in a school in Jiangsu, this contemporary coming-of-age story focuses on youth mental health and the cultivation and practice of core socialist values. It tells the story of Mo Li, a “child of the stars” (a term often referring to autistic children), who transfers into Class 5(3). With the care and support of her homeroom teacher, Ms. Milan, and her classmates, Mo Li gradually emerges from her lonely world through a series of heartfelt school experiences: the "Ten O'Clock Appointment," sheltering flowers in the rain, an open class on love, saluting the national flag, a long rope of friendship, and the dream of the sunflower.

Directed by —, Little Girl Like A Sunflower leans on a strong ensemble — Hou Yong, Zhao Ziqi, Cai Wei — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 2023.