One day during a child's growth, parents notice their child has developed independent thoughts but chooses not to communicate with them—as if the person who once understood them has suddenly become a stranger overnight. In group activities, some children always appear lonely and withdrawn, even when the atmosphere seems filled with the usual understanding and respect, their emotional barriers hint at more complex untold stories. Then one day, in the child's diary appears a heartfelt dream, yet this secret finds no one to confide in, lingering between fantasy and reality...
Children always need such a companion to navigate the puzzles of growing up. A child's development cannot thrive without the nourishment of friendship. At this China International Children's Film Festival, we regard "friendship"—this eternal theme—as an intrinsic quality of children's cinema, interpreting through intimate portrayals the growth we hope to see in children's worlds. Nearly every selected children's film explores close relationships, yet each offers its own unique perspective.
In The Little Horsewhip, we witness the deep bond between the Kazakh boy Ansar and his foal, intertwined with his heated disputes with his elder brother, as well as the moving familial love he receives from a peer girl and his father. Between The Cliffs reveals another dimension: a brother and sister, usually at odds with each other, are left to herd livestock alone after their father's departure. The boy, driven by responsibility, unconsciously sheds all prior prejudices to care for his sister with newfound patience and courage, while the girl—whose earlier actions seemed spitefully disruptive—transforms her defiance into genuine concern during crises, drawing their hearts closer. If we were to thread all these films into one narrative, we'd realize that through their evolving understanding of friendship, children ultimately require something even beyond friendship. These varied forms of intimacy transcend the conventional bounds of "friendship," and through cinematic reflection, we inch closer to true empathy with the inner worlds of children.
As children gradually learn to distinguish between self and others in the course of their development, their dual exploration of both realms continuously calls for new relationships to make up for their limited life experiences. A closer observation reveals many unresolved dilemmas of growth that continue to perplex them. If we envision the safe and steady path to maturity already paved by family, school and society, we see that children - both those preparing to set foot on this path and those already walking it - all need greater understanding and care. Psychologist Robert Selman's theory of five developmental stages of friendship shows us how the evolution from unstable relationships to mature friendships represents the formation of better understanding and support, signifying the emotional needs for mutual care and interdependence. Through this film festival's perspective on intimate relationships, let us allow cinema to serve as an interpreter of children. By recording every step of their journey toward maturity, we enable adults to observe and reflect upon children's endless "whys", while treasuring and nurturing the intimate bonds we share with them.
小马鞭 The Little Horsewhip
China | Feature Film, Family | 86min
Directors: Dong Xinwen, Shapkat Mulat
Recommended age: 6+
// Synopsis Ansar had always longed for a horse of his own like other Kazakh children, until one day when his father's friend secretly brought him a horse named Flike. This sparked a quarrel between Ansar and his brother, during which Flike got injured. While tending to Flike's wounds, Ansar was deeply moved by the story of Xiaomeili, the veterinarian's granddaughter, and her father. Determined, Ansar decided to win the horse race championship - his prize being a camel - so he could ride it to take Xiaomeili to Antarctica to find her father. Awards 1. Awarded as 'Light of Youth' Excellent Domestic Film at the 30th Beijing College Student Film Festival, Beijing International Film Festival 2. Best Film Award by UNESCO CIFEJ at the 28th Schlingel International Film Festival for Children and Young Audiences (Germany) 3. Dual Nominations for Best Children's Film and Best Original Music at the 36th China Golden Rooster Awards 4. Outstanding Film at the 2023 First Daliangshan Xichang Ethnic Film Week 5. 2023 Audience Choice Award for Nature-Themed Feature Film at the 9th Ya'an Giant Panda and Nature Film Week 6. Official Selection - Competition Section of the 2023 Jordan International Children's Film Festival 7. Official Selection of the 2023 Russia "Spirit of Fire" International Film Festival 8. Official Selection of the 2024 Mexico International Children's Film Festival 9. Official Selection of the 2024 Spain MICE Children's Film Festival Recommendation Having been selected by multiple international children's film festivals, this film presents the breathtaking grassland landscapes through the eyes of a Kazakh boy, showcasing an ideal world of innocence through children's inherent kindness. The intertwined bonds between human and horse, between people, and between humans and dreams make the boy's growth authentic and heartfelt - revealing how maturation is ultimately every child's inner calling. Let us join hands in safeguarding children's growth journeys.
河边有个好地方 Home by the River
China | Feature Film, Family | 91min
Directors: Zhang Zhonghua
Recommended age: 6+
// Synopsis Teacher Fenti returned to her elementary school for thesis research, where she noticed a boy named Shibaniuniu and a girl named Maoye often playing alone. As she focused on these two children, Teacher Fenti gradually uncovered the reasons behind their solitude and was deeply moved. Both children regained confidence through her attention. Now, Teacher Fenti must carefully consider how to conclude her thesis. Awards 1. Official Selection of the 2024 Poland KinoLub Children's Film Festival 2. Official Selection of the 2024 Germany SCHLiNGEL International Film Festival for Children and Young Audiences 3. Official Selection of the 2024 Turkey International Children's Film Festival 4. Official Selection of the 2024 Uzbekistan Tashkent International Film Festival Recommendation Director Zhang Zhonghua's name is as beloved by adults and children as his films: The Home In The Tree and its sequel have delighted global audiences with their whimsical stories rooted in Shaanxi's local culture, earning numerous festival awards including China's Golden Rooster and Huabiao Awards. Now, Home by the River continues this signature storytelling tradition while making its pre-theatrical debut at the China International Children's Film Festival.
阿莫阿依 When We Bloom
China | Feature Film, Family | 109min
Directors: Miao Yue
Recommended age: 12+
// Synopsis In Xiaoliangshan, Amo Ayi, a girl from an ordinary Yi ethnic family, dropped out after just one year of schooling. When the youth education support team visited local households for surveys, they discovered the barriers preventing Ayi's education. Yet challenges emerged one after another - the records revealed years of accumulated difficulties faced by these overage students. Could Ayi, once a top student, return to school after years of absence? Meanwhile, construction of the "Tonghua Advanced Class" program was underway in full swing. Awards Selected for the 2023 'Top 100 Recommended Excellence' Awards by Sichuan Federation of Literary and Art Circles Recommendation Liangshan, renowned for its mystical and breathtaking landscapes, is often described as a "Shangri-La hidden in the mountains." Yet for the Yi ethnic children who have lived here for generations, returning to school requires overcoming hardships beyond imagination. Unlike conventional stories of educational pursuit, this film immerses us in local life against the backdrop of poverty alleviation achievements and the region's rich geographical and cultural heritage, revealing what truly matters most for children's growth in contemporary society.
同学们好 Poetry Of Kids
China | Feature Film, Family | 92min
Directors: Fang Gangliang
Recommended age: 8+
// Synopsis The children took on a challenging task to earn the "Sunshine Group Badge," aiming to help a quirky "returnee" transfer student fit into the group. However, when the two sides—raised in completely different educational environments—met, a series of misunderstandings arose. To achieve true integration, the kids put their heads together and sprang into action... Awards 1. Officially signed as a key project of the 10th Beijing International Film Festival 2. Winning project of the Golden Rooster Film Project Promotion at the 33rd Golden Rooster Awards of Chinese Cinema. Recommendation What answers might children have for the great question of cultural clash and integration? Under the group’s warmth, as the children strive together to solve the problem, not only do humorous little episodes unfold in turns—we too can witness the growth of these relationships in any one of them, moved by friendship and dreams.
泪光中的妈妈 MOTHER OF TEARS
China | Feature Film, Family | 100min
Directors: Du Qiquan
Recommended age: 9+
// Synopsis A surgeon and her son in eighth grade; a teacher and her daughter Xiao Ke in eleventh grade; a taxi driver and his fifth-grade son. Three families from different walks of life, three mothers equally determined to raise their children well—each searching for a better way to navigate parenthood. Meanwhile, the children grapple with their own struggles, seeking answers to the confusions of growing up. Parents and children growing together—this is what family truly means. Recommendation Becoming a child’s true confidant is harder than raising what society deems a 'good kid.' As mothers try to befriend their children, they learn to truly understand their struggles—only then can they guide them through confusion. In turn, children witness their mothers’ efforts and grow in empathy. This mutual striving—this is the essence of family connection.
苔痕 Moss mark
China | Feature Film, Family | 89min
Directors: Li Moyan
Recommended age: 14+
// Synopsis Fourteen-year-old Meizi, her family struck by sudden tragedy, teetered on the brink of self-abandonment. Her teacher offered not just academic support, but solace for her wounded spirit. Neighbor Uncle Mei likewise poured his heart into caring for her family. Both asked only one thing of her—to study hard and earn admission to a top-tier high school. Yet the true trials awaiting Meizi had only just begun. Recommendation By chance, when a child is suddenly confronted with family upheaval, it means their life has reached a perilous crossroads. Behind their emotional reactions lie countless thoughts trapped in dead ends. This is why we must examine the responsibilities parents ought to bear—and observe how those around the child can, through their own perspectives, offer guidance during this crucible of a moment.
查克哈克历险记 Chuck and Huck The Great Adventure
Russia | Fantasy | 96 min
Director: Aleksandr Kott
Recommended Age: 8+
// Synopsis Chuck and Huck, two kind-hearted yet mischievous brothers, live with their loving mother while missing their father who works far away in the north. As the New Year approaches, they embark on a journey to the mystical Blue Mountain in search of blessings. Now, the greatest adventure of their lives awaits—for during the holiday season, even the most impossible miracles can come true. Recommendation Two children longing for their father embark on a mystical adventure. Yet beyond this tale of daring quests and miraculous encounters, there also lies a father’s blessings and a mother’s tender care. We will witness the brothers’ unbreakable bond, and the castle of childhood that their family builds with love and imagination.
大梦想 Big Dreams
Czech Republic | Feature Film | 96 min
Director: Dan Pánek
Recommended Age: 10+ 
// Synopsis In 1998, the Czech ice hockey team clinched Olympic gold, sending the nation into a frenzy. Every child dreamed of becoming the next Jaromír Jágr or Dominik Hašek. Eleven-year-old Dom is no exception—he burns to play hockey, but his parents lack the means and doubt his talent. Guided by his grandfather’s advice, Dom and his friend Honza form a ragtag team of misfits and underdogs. After early setbacks, these unlikely players begin earning their community’s respect. Awards 1. Official Selection – 63rd Zlín International Film Festival for Children and Youth
2. Official Selection – 45th CESKE FILMNOVÈ KOMEDIÈ Film Festival
3. Official Selection – 35th Pilsen Film Festival
4. Official Selection – 28th SCHLINGEL International Film Festival for Children and Young Audience
5. Official Selection – 32nd Hamburg Film Festival - Michel Children and Youth Film Festival
叛逆周末 Weekend Rebels
Germany | Feature Film | 109 min
Director: Marc Rothemund
Recommended Age: 14+
// Synopsis Mirko frequently travels for work, while his wife Fatime shoulders the heavy responsibilities of family life. Their ten-year-old son Jason has autism and relies on strictly structured daily routines. Mirko makes a pact with the boy: to find a football club he can embrace—as long as Jason dedicates himself to every drill and game. When their quest begins, father and son break free from domestic routines, discovering profound warmth in each other's hearts as they navigate challenges together. Awards Best Actor (Dastler Prize) - 2023 Bavarian Film Awards Recommendation This is an unfortunate family—their autistic child's mishaps have brought relentless troubles to parents and grandparents alike. Yet it is also a family that never gives up: the bond between father and son costs the man his career, but slowly cracks the icy walls of autism. Along their turbulent journey, as we hold our breath for the boy, we glimpse the raw reality of an autistic mind. And through this family’s unconditional love, the boy becomes someone we all yearn to understand and embrace.
峭壁之间 Between The Cliffs
Iran | Feature Film | 78 min
Director: Mokhtar Abdollahi
Recommended Age: 8+
// Synopsis A young boy and his little sister must lead their cow to a high mountain pasture—and so begins their solitary adventure. Awards 1. Official Selection - 63rd Zlín International Film Festival for Children and Youth 2. Official Selection - Official Selection - 45th Czech National Film Festival (Finále Plzeň) 3. Official Selection - 35th Pilsen Film Festival 4. Official Selection - 28th SCHLINGEL International Film Festival for Children and Young Audience 5. Official Selection - 32nd Hamburg FilmFest "Michel" Children's Film Festival 6. KIDS Award - Best Feature Film - 15th Filem'On Brussels International Children's Film Festival 7. Official Selection - 41st Münster International Children's Film Festival 8. Official Selection - 11th Czech and Slovak Film Festival 9. Best Children's Film - 30th Tokyo Kineko International Children's Film Festival Recommendation A brother and a sister living under the same roof, struggling through lean days, inevitably bristle at each other's habits—even engage in quiet rivalry. But must a football-loving boy and an embroidery-loving girl be doomed to discord? During twenty-four hours without their father, we gradually discover the boy's courage... and the girl's equal yet different bravery. True courage in growing up knows no gender—it only asks to be kindled by mutual care, until it blossoms into a form uniquely one's own.