Fantasy Film I Believe in Deer, a BJIFF Outstanding Script Project, Kicks Off Shooting on January 17, Embarking on a Snowy Journey Through the Greater Khingan Mountains
Executive produced by Gu Tao and produced by Bao Bei’er, with Tu Hailun directing and Li Fannong serving as cinematographer, the fantasy feature I Believe in Deer officially commenced shooting in Alihe Town, Oroqen Autonomous Banner, Inner Mongolia. The film delves into the inner world of children, presenting a poignant tale of guardianship, deception, and solitude.
I Believe in Deer Kick-off Photo
Originally titled Gua Gua's Adventure, I Believe in Deer was selected for the final pitch roadshow at the 14th Beijing International Film Festival (BJIFF) Project Pitches, where it earned recognition as an "Outstanding Script Project". With the promotion of the BJIFF Project Pitches platform, the project secured 1 million yuan in funding from the Beijing Culture Guiding Fund and the Huairou Young Filmmakers Support Fund. This financial backing resolved longstanding budget challenges and enabled a script that had been in development for nearly a decade to move from the page to production, transforming the snow-covered forests of the Greater Khingan Mountains into cinematic reality.
I Believe in Deer at the Business Negotiation Session of the 14th BJIFF Project Pitches
A Fantasy Fairy Tale Set in the Icy World of the Greater Khingan Mountains
The story of I Believe in Deer centers on ten-year-old Gua Gua (played by Meng Meng), who ventures alone into a forbidden snowy expanse in search of a "vanished" deer. Along the way, she encounters Red Second Uncle (played by Bao Bei’er) and Blue Big Uncle (played by Yang Haoyu). Through courage and insight, Gua Gua unravels the web of fear-fueled lies spun by monstrous forces, ultimately reconciling with her past and opening her heart to the future.
Poster for I Believe in Deer
The film's recently unveiled poster features Gua Gua, Red Second Uncle, and Blue Big Uncle in a minimalist collage style, hinting at the introspective journey into the emotional landscape of children that awaits audiences.
The Filming Site of I Believe in Deer
Shot on location in the primeval forests of the Greater Khingan Mountains, the film weaves together the rich ethnic traditions of the Oroqen people with breathtaking natural scenery. Through its fantastical adventure, I Believe in Deer celebrates the harmonious bond between humanity and nature while promoting the development of the local cultural and tourism industry through the power of cinema. This allows more viewers to appreciate the unique charm of the Oroqen Autonomous Banner.
A Decade-Long Cinematic Journey Comes to Life
Produced by Baitong Film, I Believe in Deer marks another fantasy fairy tale masterpiece from the studio following the film The Dreamer and the Jungle, garnering widespread attention and support within the industry. This black-humor-themed exploration of children's growth unites a talented cast - including Bao Bei’er and Yang Haoyu - with a top-tier creative team, promising a film of exceptional quality.
Congratulations on the successful commencement of filming for I Believe in Deer! We eagerly anticipate its arrival on the big screen. The BJIFF Project Pitches will continue to support young creators, and we look forward to bringing more outstanding film projects to life and onto the screen.