«Real Lion» by Zhang Hai

Zhang Hai’s screenplay “Real Lion,” a finalist for Best Short Screenplay in the May 2022 edition of the Rome Prisma Film Awards, comes to life in an international short film that masterfully weaves a story of courage, perseverance and the bond between a father and his daughter.
This multilingual film, with Russian, English, and Chinese dialogue, takes audiences on an emotional journey that transcends cultural boundaries.

The plot centers on Bert, a celebrated Russian champion of Sambo, a traditional Soviet martial art. Swindled and bankrupt, he starts over from scratch in China with his young daughter Sarah. Deprived of his points of reference, and armed only with his strength, Bert faces various challenges to integrate and survive.

If Bert’s journey is filled with challenges and difficulties, it is also filled with unexpected moments of solidarity and kindness from strangers. As he navigates a foreign land and language, Bert’s determination to secure a better future for his daughter takes center stage, and the protagonist will find himself challenged again when he receives a proposal that can change his life.
The film beautifully captures the stark contrasts and rich tapestry of cultural exchange, highlighting the universality of love, hope, and the human spirit.

Director Zhang Hai’s narrative is poignant and compelling, drawing viewers into Bert’s world and making them root for his success. It is an ambitious narrative construction that investigates resilience and hope, made possible by the clear vision of its author but especially by a top-notch cast that brings intense characters full of humanity to the screen.