A micro movie with a budget of only 700 yuan has become a viral hit. The film, called "Redemption", got more than 10,000 views on the second day after it was posted online. Its director is a complete rookie and so are the actors.
The movie tells the redemptive story of an ordinary young man and a female delinquent. The movie's humble beginning started with a script.
Director Gao Qi said, "I got my hands on a script, and I picked two lead actors from my friends. Our equipment was basic, two cameras, a microphone and a tripod. That was it."
Each person on the team shouldered multiple roles and devoted their weekends to working rigorously on the film. What brought them together was their curiosity and passion for films. The entire film cost only 700 yuan, 300 of which were spent when the director treated the entire crew to a meal.
The movie took 5 months to complete and became an instant hit when it premiered on-line.
Gao said, "The movie has gotten almost 30,000 views by now. I feel totally satisfied."
After the initial success, the director is already planning his next film. Though the road ahead may not be easy, he is determined to press on.