Storyline

Liu Xiaochun (Tang Yun), a 13-year-old violin prodigy, and his devoted father, Liu Cheng (Liu Peiqi), leave their provincial Chinese town for Beijing, hoping to find a violin teacher and, ultimately, success. The teenager is at first coached by the eccentric professor Jiang (Wang Zhiwen), but he is soon replaced with the renowned professor Yu (Chen Kaige). The day of the big competition is fast approaching, and Xiaochun must decide if this new, high-pressure life is right for him.

Plot Keywords

violinist, child prodigy, father, music teacher, eccentric, competitor, emotional, touching, heartwarming, china, provincial town, beijing, city, apartment, concert hall, music education, mentorship, father/son relationship, coming of age, competition, talent, underdog, growing up, transformation, 2000s

Short Review

It is best read as a paean to the power of music -- while it is playing, the film is at its most persuasive.

Trailer

Streaming Service

1. Amazon Video : Rent from $1.99, Or $0.00 with a Prime membership