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"The Lychee Road" has become an instant blockbuster this summer, with its familiar story told in an innovative way that resonates with modern youth in the workplace.

A still from "The Lychee Road." [Image courtesy of Maoyan Entertainment]

Directed, written by and starring Dong Chengpeng, the film is adapted from Ma Boyong's bestselling novel "The Litchi Road." The story follows low-ranking Tang official Li Shande, who is assigned the seemingly impossible task of transporting fresh lychees over 2,000 kilometers to the imperial court in Chang'an as a birthday gift for the emperor's favorite concubine.

This was mission impossible in ancient times. The journey at that time without modern transportation typically took 20 days, while lychees only stay fresh for three days under normal conditions. To save his family, Li risked everything. He developed innovative preservation methods and defied all odds to successfully deliver the fruit to Chang'an in just 11 days.

The film builds on a scene from the popular Chinese poem "Passing by Huaqing Palace" by Tang poet Du Mu, specifically referencing the lines: "A single rider raises red dust while the Consort smiles / No one knows he carries lychees to her."

The director underscored how the movie also mirrors reality at the premiere in Beijing on July 17. "Making this film required overcoming countless challenges; each of us became Li Shande in our own field," Dong said.

This period comedy-drama has deeply resonated with young Chinese audiences by blending historical legend with modern workplace satire and relatable personal struggles — from financial pressures to career advancement challenges.

Cast and crew members of "The Lychee Road" pose for a photo at the film's premiere in Beijing, July 17, 2025. [Photo courtesy of AskWin]

Original author Ma Boyong also attended the premiere, even praising the film as "more layered and emotionally resonant" than his novel. 

Dong revealed that he deeply identified with his role as Li Shande during filming: "While portraying him, I truly became Li Shande — his breakdowns, helplessness and despair felt organic; so did his joy with companions. When he thought of Chang'an, I saw my younger self arriving in Beijing with dreams. That sense of personal connection never faded."

"The Lychee Road," also starring Bai Ke, Zhuang Dafei, Terrance Lau, Yang Mi and Andy Lau, was released in theaters nationwide on July 18. The film has dominated the weekend box office, grossing more than 290 million yuan ($40 million) as of July 22, becoming an instant summer hit with audiences and critics alike.