At Busan’s Asian Project Market, the spotlight shines on “The Daughter,” a groundbreaking reproductive trauma psychological thriller from Chinese filmmaker Guan Tian. Marking his debut feature, the film is a co-production involving Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, and France. Set against a backdrop of myth and psychological tension, this film promises to delve deep into intergenerational struggles, capturing both cultural and universal themes.
Inspiration Rooted in Family and Mythology
Guan Tian’s inspiration for “The Daughter” emerged during the making of his short film “The Poison Cat,” which also centers on mythical themes of revenge. The new feature builds on a narrative deeply rooted in personal history, drawing from Guan’s relationships with his mother and grandmother. Through this lens, he aims to explore the complex bonds and inherited struggles between generations.
A Haunting Tale of Reproductive Trauma
The story follows Gui, a sixteen-year-old forced into pregnancy by her infertile mother, Yishui. As eerie occurrences escalate, pregnant women in their village are pressured to abort. Gui, however, develops a mysterious connection to an evil spirit that reveals Yishui’s deepest pain related to childbearing. This spirit symbolizes the intergenerational trauma that Guan wishes to highlight, reflecting how these struggles resonate across cultures.
Exploration of Women’s Autonomy
Producer Vivian Bao emphasizes the film’s focus on women’s reproductive struggles. “The Daughter” seeks to tackle the erosion of women’s autonomy over their bodies, a theme also present in Guan’s previous works. Bao stresses the importance of sensitivity to these themes when seeking financing and partnerships, highlighting the universal relevance of these issues.
Ambitious Production Plans
With a budget of $1 million, “The Daughter” is currently in the financing stage. One of the project’s main goals is to find a lush, evocative filming location by June 2026. The team is actively seeking Southeast Asian co-producers to anchor the film in a unique and mysterious landscape, enhancing its magical realism vibe.
Collaborating with Bao are producers Ding Ningyuan, Patrick Mao Huang, and Alexa Rivero, bringing diverse expertise to this compelling exploration of psychological and cultural themes.
