Mangrove Bay
红树湾
2025 | fiction | Magical realism | 12mins
Director | Writer | Editor
Chicago International Film Festival - CineYouth 2026
Official Selection
Synopsis:
After getting a permanent facial burn, the acting student Hong struggles to return to class and continue his career.
However, he notices that his shadow acts differently from his actual body. It becomes alive and gradually guides Hong in a conflicting direction, pushing him to deal with his fear of acting again and being seen.
To help Hong get rid of the shadow illusion, his wife, Jess, and he unexpectedly reach a private magical beach, the Mangrove Bay, where Hong has to make a final decision about who he wants to be.
©A Jay Zhao film 2025
“Mangrove Bay” will premiere at CineYouth 2026 at the Oscar-Qualifying Chicago International Film Festival, and stream on Cinesend.
To watch the film before mid 2026, feel free to fill out the form or DM Jay Zhao to request an unlisted link, whether you’re a random audience, festival staff, or potential collaborator.