The hospitality of locals in Xinjiang has shaped one of the best memories of Chan during the movie's preparation and shooting.
"I had got lost when trying to return to my hotel one night. I sought help from several locals, but we couldn't quite understand each other due to different languages. When I showed them my room card, they gestured to escort me back to the hotel despite it took up more than 10 minutes of their time," he recalls.
"I also felt touched to find that some doctors in Xinjiang could earn much more if they relocated to big cities like Beijing and Shanghai, but they have stayed in local hospitals as they believe they are more needed there," adds Chan.
Noting that such small episodes in life could make him better understand why the injured boy received the help of many selfless people, the director says he hopes the movie will convey an inspirational message.
"An ordinary person with a kind heart can become a hero when lending a helping hand in a crisis," he concludes.
