Ostrich (2026)

Ostrich is a 2026 Chinese drama film written and directed by He Xinyan, marking the director's feature-length debut. The film premiered at the FIRST Youth Film Festival on July 19, 2026, where it received significant attention for its nuanced exploration of contemporary relationships. Starring Wen Xin and Zheng Jingru, the narrative follows He Yunian, who secretly returns to Beijing during a holiday to reunite with his girlfriend, Li Ran. What begins as a joyful reunion quickly transforms into an introspective journey as He Yunian uses their time together to gather material for his writing, leading them to dig up buried memories.

Through these shared recollections, the couple confronts the realistic issues they have been avoiding in their relationship. The film delves into themes of communication, artistic creation, and the friction between personal dreams and romantic commitment. Set against the backdrop of urban life, Ostrich offers a quiet yet powerful look at how young adults navigate the complexities of modern love and self-discovery.

• The film had its world premiere at the FIRST Youth Film Festival in Xining, China, in July 2026, showcasing it as a key entry in the festival's competitive lineup.
• Director He Xinyan serves as both the writer and director, bringing a personal touch to the screenplay which focuses heavily on dialogue and character psychology.
• The title 'Ostrich' serves as a metaphor for the couple's tendency to bury their heads in the sand regarding their unresolved relationship problems.
• Starring duo Wen Xin and Zheng Jingru deliver naturalistic performances that highlight the subtle tensions and emotional depths of the characters.