Director Xin Yukun premiered his new film "Trending Topic" in Beijing on Nov. 25, aiming to prompt audiences to be cautious and reflective about online public opinion and its hidden influences.

A photo captures director Xin Yukun working on the film set. [Photo courtesy of iQiyi Pictures]

The film, set for a Nov. 30 release, could become a trending topic itself with its provocative content. It centers on a self-publishing chief editor skilled at generating online traffic and trending topics, who inadvertently contributes to a female student's suicide. After discovering a distressing message from the victim, she uncovers a sexual assault case and learns that a powerful perpetrator has maligned the victim. Amid fluctuating public sentiment and emerging hidden interests, a battle to bring corrupt powers to justice ensues.

The film exposes the audience to an eye-opening "online public opinion war," vividly showcasing the power of words on the screen. This enables viewers to intuitively recognize that the influence of public opinion has the potential to both save and take lives. The director pointed out, "being in the internet era, everyone is a participant and observer of public opinion." He said he hoped that after watching the film, everyone could "reflect more on facing online public opinion chaos and maintain their rational judgment."

The director candidly added, "I hope to use the narrative of a film to tell everyone that in the complex online public opinion environment, sometimes the facts you understand may not necessarily be the truth, and the truth you see may not necessarily be the real truth."

As Xin's latest work with a realistic theme, "Trending Topic" not only sharply points to reality but also serves as a wake-up call in our fast-paced online environment. After the screening, some critics praised it for contributing to China's special campaigns like Operation Qinglang, tackling urgent internet-related issues such as pornography, misinformation, cyberbullying, and algorithm abuse.

A still image from "Trending Topic." [Photo courtesy of iQiyi Pictures]

The film features a range of impressive characters, including victimized girls with contrasting experiences, a principal who carries out evil deeds under the guise of goodness, and a mother struggling with reality. Each character embodies different aspects of human nature. The director notes that the similar experiences of the victims in the film highlight the cyclical nature of such predatory acts. He believes that punishing the perpetrators is essential to prevent similar incidents, a conviction driving the protagonist, played by actress Zhou Dongyu, to speak out.

Zhou's portrayal of her character was a big surprise for audiences. Her transformation from chasing online streaming traffic to becoming a voice for victims and challenging evil powers showcases her unwavering courage, even risking her job for self-redemption. "Her inner strength is the core that supports her in the fight," Xin said, emphasizing that a flawed character is more convincing.

"The most appealing part of the protagonist is her inherent conscience," Zhou said of her role. She noted that the more the character faces oppression from powerful entities, the more courageous she becomes. She added, "There are millions of voices in the court of public opinion, and I hope everyone can seek the root of information, not letting our kindness be exploited."

In addition to the cruel and realistic portrayal of human nature, the film also captures many touching aspects of humanity. For example, two victims risk everything to reveal the truth, a theme that has deeply resonated with viewers.

The cast and crew pose for a photo at the premiere of "Trending Topic," held in Beijing, Nov. 25, 2023. [Photo courtesy of Dark Horse]

The director also expressed hope that the film, while encouraging internet users to speak out bravely for justice, conveys a hopeful vision. He said he wishes for people not to be passive bystanders but instead become sparks that empower others in the internet era. "Every positive voice carries tremendous power," he said, urging people to avoid bias and stereotypes.

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