Ah-Tai has dreams of making it big as a rock n’ roll guitarist. Stymied in Taipei, he retreats home to the rural outpost Taichung, to regroup and save money to move to the United States. Once home, he renews a bitter conflict with his estranged father, Da. Though stern and unforgiving towards Ah-Tai, Da has taken in many disadvantaged youths from the area and trains them in a traditional form of drumming known as Din-Tao. Ah-Tai initially wants nothing to do with this ritual, but is sucked into performing with the troupe when a rival from his youth challenges him. In the process Ah-Tai transforms the company, infusing his own contemporary musical style into the ritualistic form. Based on the true story of the Jyou-Tian Folk Drum And Arts Group (which is acclaimed in Taiwan for updating Din-Tao) the film features real-life members of the ensemble and promises a drama-filled and entertaining romp.

As part of the Opening Night festivities, director Fung Kai is expected to present his film in person and participate in an audience Q&A. Additionally, in the lobby of the New People Cinema will be a special presentation of the spectacular eight-foot-tall Prince Nezha puppets, like those seen in Din Tao: Leader of the Parade. The puppets—which have to be seen to be believed—will also be featured in a in a special performance exclusively for Opening Night Party attendees.


Written by Kai Feng. Photographed by Chris Hsin . With Alan Kuo, Hung-Sheng Huang, Crystal Lin. (123 min. In Taiwanese and Mandarin with subtitles. ifilm Co., Ltd.)