FAB Grantee Program: FLIFF Presents: The Spell of Forever

After losing her parents in an earthquake, 6-year-old Jiaying established a deep relationship with her “grandma” in the new family., when she learned that the old lady was illiterate, ,she began teaching her how to write. and they became best friends.

After a warm period of time, she suddenly learned that her grandma had cancer and was dying. Besides, she learned a crueler truth that not only her grandma, but everyone would die and leave her.

Just as the pain in her heart could not be relieved she was inspired by the classical Chinese fairy tale “Adventures of Monkey King”. and embarked on a journey to find the mythical “Forever Fruit” for her grandmother.

Director Biography
Ryan ZHENG is a director and editor born in Tangshan, China.

Originally dreaming of becoming a scientist to explore the world’s mysteries, then he was ultimately drawn to the magic of cinema and pursued a career in filmmaking. As an editor, he has worked with renowned directors like Gu Changwei on several acclaimed productions, such as Changwei Gu <life is a miracle> 2011, (starring Zhang Ziyi and Aaron Kwok).

This film is his first feature-length project as both writer and director. Choosing to set the story in his hometown, he weaves his own coming-of-age experiences into a narrative that feels deeply personal yet universally resonant.

Zheng’s works carry profound philosophical contemplation through nuanced realist storytelling, refracting grand humanistic concerns through intimate narratives. His cinema represents the aesthetic aspirations of China’s new generation of filmmakers.

Where:
Savor Cinema
503 SE 6th Street
Fort Lauderdale, FL 3301
When:
Saturday, April 11, 2026 at 1:00pm
Thursday, April 16, 2026 at 5:30pm
Cost:
$9-$12
Tickets:
Ticket prices vary. CLICK HERE to purchase with FLIFF

China / 2025 / Chinese w/English subtitles / 83 min Director, Writer: Ryan ZHENG; Producer: Yu ZHU;