Springtime in a Small Town 2004

As the war-torn city slowly begins to heal, Dr. Zhang Zhichen (Xin Baiqing) pays a visit to his old schoolmate Dai Liyan (Wu Jun), whose fragile health has been beset by the trauma of conflict. Upon arrival, Zhang is met with the warm hospitality of Liyan’s wife, Yuwen (Hu Jingfan), and his teenage sister, Dai Xiu (Lu Sisi). The doctor’s presence stirs up a mix of emotions, as he reunites with Yuwen, a woman who was once the object of his passion ten years prior.

Their rekindled attraction is palpable, but it’s tempered by the harsh reality that Liyan’s health issues have rendered their physical intimacy all but non-existent. As Zhang and Yuwen navigate the complexities of their revived emotions, they’re faced with the challenge of repressed desires and unrequited love. The tension builds as Dai Xiu’s birthday celebration approaches, and the drinks flow freely.

As the night wears on, the mutual attraction between Zhang and Yuwen becomes increasingly evident to all, including Liyan, who’s become increasingly detached from his wife. In a desperate attempt to hold onto his friend and his marriage, Liyan begs Zhang to stay, but it’s too little, too late. The doctor is faced with an impossible decision: should he continue to fan the flames of passion or maintain a sense of decency by departing?

Meanwhile, the original voice-over narration that provided context in Fei Mu’s version has been replaced with a more subtle approach, allowing the audience to immerse themselves in the emotional turmoil unfolding on screen.