Rabat – What if a funeral home became the place where two lonely people found a family? A Chinese film exploring grief, second chances, and human connection will give audiences in Rabat a chance to discover this story on Friday.
The Chinese Cultural Center in Rabat will screen “Lighting Up the Stars” on October 30 at 6 p.m. The screening offers free entry and Arabic subtitles, according to the center’s Instagram account.
The 2022 Chinese film combines social drama with human comedy and runs for one hour and 52 minutes. The screening welcomes audiences aged 18 and older.
A Story of Loss and Second Chances
The film follows Mo Saemi, a man who struggles to rebuild his life after leaving prison. His father wants him to take over the family funeral business but doubts his ability to manage it. Mo, meanwhile, has little interest in continuing the family profession.
His life takes an unexpected turn when a young orphan named Xiao Wen enters his shop. She wants to know what happened to her grandmother, whom Mo had taken into his care through his work.
Mo soon finds himself looking after the lively and stubborn girl, even though he never planned to take on such a responsibility. Their relationship begins with arguments and misunderstandings, but everyday experiences gradually bring them closer.
As they learn to understand each other, the two develop a bond that resembles that of a father and daughter. Xiao Wen brings warmth into Mo’s life, while he gives her the care and support she needs.
Through this relationship, Mo begins to see his work differently. The film explores grief, redemption, and the meaning of family while reminding viewers of the dignity of life and death.
Bringing Moroccan and Chinese cultures closer
The screening also reflects the Chinese Cultural Center’s wider mission to strengthen cultural ties between Morocco and China.
The two countries signed a memorandum of understanding on January 26, 2016, to establish the Chinese Cultural Center in Rabat. The center promotes cultural exchange, mutual understanding, and friendship between the two peoples through educational programs and cultural activities.
It mainly creates opportunities for Moroccans and Rabat residents to discover different perspectives, and find shared human experiences across cultures by bringing Chinese cinema to Moroccan audiences.
For film lovers in Rabat, the screening offers a chance to enjoy a Chinese film for free while discovering a story about loss and the unexpected ways people can change one another’s lives.