Plot

The documentary marks the directorial debut of Chinese actor Zhang Zhehan, it documents his deeply personal journey of self-healing in the aftermath of a devastating cyber media storm in August 2021 that abruptly halted his acting career.

The documentary, "August", marks the directorial debut of Chinese actor Zhang Zhehan, will be released on April 14th, 2024. This film documents Zhang's deeply personal journey of self-healing in the aftermath of a devastating cyber media storm in August 2021 that abruptly halted his acting career. In the absence of the stage and limelight, when his career and life were shattered by false information and malicious distortions online, Zhang Zhehan chose to embark on a journey in August, two years later, to embrace the real world in the way he loves. On this cycling trip from Shangri-La to Lhasa, he encountered snow-capped mountains and glaciers, came across meadows and trees, flocks and herds, and many ordinary yet soul-touching individuals; He listened to the sounds of nature, the stories of strangers, as well as the pain and love within his heart. The shadow of the past August still lingers, and the Augusts of the future will continue to arrive. This particular month in, "August", is exceptionally meaningful.—Zhangzhehan_offical

The documentary opens with magnificent three-minute aerial sequence of Zhang ZheHan's ascent of the Haba Snow Mountain. Next, we follow him on wheels to Yun-nan Shangri-la to meet Mr Deng Zhu, a master of the string musical instrument Xuanzi to hear his story and music.

Zhang ZheHan then brings us to Qiu Na Tong alpine village in Tibet where two young brothers and a golden retriever by the name of Da Zhuang share with us the wonders of the misty forest and their common passion for the basketball sport.

The protagonist then takes us to the mysterious Tibetan glaciers before cycling to Tong Mai, deep in the mountains of Tibet. In this quaint post-town, we encounter the bubbly Madam Xiang, who runs a bed and breakfast. She whips up gigantic pots of noodles and chicken soup for soul and more, including even a snippet of Teresa Teng's evergreen tune "Tian Mi Mi".

The documentary then pans to Ba Song Cuo town for a white water rafting experience on Tibetan rivers. Here, we are introduced to the laid-back Liu family who owns the white water rafting centre and shuttles between the city and the country, living out their dreams.

The documentary ends with scenes amidst the bustling Lhasa city, leaving the audience longing for more, with hopes and an awe for mother nature and resilience of ordinary people.

"August" is a journey with majestic mountains, birds chirp, forest mist, exotic flora, laughter, smiley tanned faces, cheerful banter. It also depicts a self-healing process and undaunted love for life, aspiring the audience to pursue their purposes in life.