Before Fireworks is a touching short film about compassion and unexpected filial affection. Neighborhood thieves Ziyuan He (Qi) and Youjie Lee (Forest Lin) find themselves on an unforeseen journey after burglarizing the historic Chinese residence of Mei Tang (Qian Wang), a lonely older woman. As Chinese New Year approaches, Ziyuan is plagued by guilt after they may have left Mei in an unknown health situation, and begins to wrestle with a newfound conscience—something his friend and crime associate may not understand. Director Lyncis Niu takes audiences on an emotional ride filled with love, remorse, and the complexities of both chosen bonds and family by blood.
Qi delivers an endearing performance as the young robber, whose character is forced to confront unexpected emotions and lingering regret after a night of burglaries. The audience is drawn into his moral dilemma, deeply feeling his compassion and internal struggle. Lin’s portrayal of Youjie, Ziyuan’s criminal partner and friend, is both grounded and dynamic, effectively capturing his emotional arc. His character also conveys genuine happiness for his friend’s new opportunity. Wang gives a heartfelt portrayal of Mei, capturing her sadness and a yearning for human connection to fill the absence left by her estranged family. The on-screen chemistry between Qi and Wang is both natural and touching, providing some of the film’s most emotionally resonant moments. Justin Chan, as Mei’s son, brings intensity and a commanding presence to the screen, rounding out the cast with a performance that leaves a lasting impression.
Niu’s direction provides a heartfelt foundation that allows the audience to truly connect with his characters. There’s a thoughtful balance between exterior shots and richly detailed interiors, filled with cultural décor that subtly reflects the beauty and, at times, the emotional confinement of the Chinese community. Zehua Yang’s cinematography captures the contrast between urban density and the surrounding bucolic landscapes, highlighting the characters’ emotional isolation amid physical space. Ziyuan and Mei, though searching for different things, find their lives intersecting at just the right moment. The direction and camera work invite the audience to follow the characters’ journey, offering emotional depth and a sense of quiet curiosity within the film’s short runtime. The use of muted color tones and a deliberate emotional distance enhances the characters’ vulnerability, helping viewers understand their inner conflicts and motivations as the story unfolds.
Human connection is one of the most powerful forces of nature. The friendship between Ziyuan and Youjie is an evolving bond—one that is tested and reshaped with Mei’s new role in their world. Her presence introduces an emotional imbalance that forces them to confront their values and reevaluate their loyalty to one another. Before Fireworks is a stirring film that reminds us of humanity’s capacity for deep compassion, even if it takes time and vulnerability to uncover it.
