Why We’re Making This Film
Small City was born from a deeply personal place; a reflection on fleeting moments, cultural intersections, and the emotional tug-of-war between duty and desire. As the filmmaker, I’ve always been fascinated by how people from completely different worlds can connect, even if just for a short time, and how those connections can change us forever.
This story is about more than romance. It’s about human choices, the power of place, and the sometimes painful beauty of discovering what truly matters. I wanted to create something that reflects real emotional stakes and nuanced cultural experiences, something universal yet specific, intimate yet cinematic.
With Small City , I hope to show that love, longing, and transformation don’t just happen in grand gestures or perfect circumstances, they often bloom in quiet moments, in unfamiliar cities, between people who didn’t expect to fall for each other.
About the Project
Small City is a romantic drama that follows a New York businessman who travels to a small city in China for work. On his first night, he meets a Chinese woman in an unexpected, emotional moment. Their connection is instant, but complicated, both are in committed relationships. Yet as they spend more time together, their bond deepens.
Set over ten days, this film captures their emotional journey as they question everything they've built and must decide between their pasts and the future they didn’t see coming.
This is a bilingual, cross-cultural production that blends Eastern and Western perspectives, in visuals, dialogue, and soul.
Why We’re Crowdfunding
Making an emotionally rich, internationally-set film on an indie budget isn’t easy but it is possible with the right support. Crowdfunding allows us to stay true to the story’s heart without compromising for commercial interests.
Your contributions will help fund:
* Location shoots in China/Hong Kong
* Local cast and crew hires
* Translation & bilingual production costs
* Editing, color grading, and sound mixing
* Marketing and festival submissions to bring this film to a global audience
As a thank you to our community, we will credit all individual supporters who wish to be recognized in our film credits, teasers, and social media shoutouts. If you’re a business owner or brand, we also offer placement opportunities in our trailer, ending credits, and campaign materials — simply reach out to us at david.chen@sqo.marketing or on Instagram at @hanabiproductions.media after contributing.
By backing Small City, you're not just supporting a film — you're becoming part of a cross-cultural story about connection, risk, and emotional truth.
