Dying to Survive
Dying to Survive

Dying to Survive

2018Movie117 minMandarin

A Chinese leukaemia patient smuggles cheap but untested pharmaceuticals from India to help hundreds of Chinese people suffering from cancer.

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IMDb7.2/10
Google Users91%
Director: Meng HuGenres: Drama, Comedy

Plot Summary

A man suffering from a rare disease is desperate to find a cheaper alternative to a life-saving drug. He embarks on a dangerous mission to smuggle generic medication from India into China, facing ethical dilemmas and forming an unlikely bond with fellow patients along the way. The journey tests his resolve and forces him to confront the realities of survival and compassion in a flawed healthcare system.

Critical Reception

Dying to Survive was a massive critical and commercial success in China, lauded for its powerful storytelling, stellar performances, and its timely and sensitive tackling of a serious social issue. It resonated deeply with audiences, sparking widespread discussion about healthcare accessibility and affordability.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its emotional depth and compelling narrative.
  • Commended for its realistic portrayal of the struggles faced by patients.
  • Celebrated for its blend of humor and pathos, making a serious subject accessible.

Google audience: Audiences overwhelmingly appreciated the film's moving story, strong acting, and its ability to highlight important social issues with both heart and humor. Many found it to be an inspiring and thought-provoking experience.

Awards & Accolades

Won numerous awards including Best Film, Best Director, Best Actor, and Best Screenplay at the Beijing College Student Film Festival. Nominated for several awards at the Asian Film Awards.

Fun Fact

The film was inspired by the true story of Lu Yong, a leukemia patient who smuggled cheaper generic drugs from India to China for fellow patients.

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