"Godspeed," an upcoming road trip comedy film that seamlessly combines humor with an examination of social issues, is set to debut in the Chinese market during the May Day holiday.

The cast and crew of "Godspeed" walk on the red carpet at the opening of the 13th Beijing International Film Festival, April 21, 2023. [Photo by Zheng Liang/China.org.cn]

Directed by Yi Xiaoxing and featuring Qiao Shan, Fan Chengcheng, Ma Li, and Zhang Jingyi, "Godspeed" is China's answer to the Hollywood comedy blockbuster "Meet the Parents" (2000), enriched with Chinese cultural context and comedic elements. The movie follows a prospective son-in-law who tries to impress his future father-in-law by lying about his job to avoid prejudice. However, unforeseen events turn his well-intentioned attempts to please into hilarious misadventures on their journey together.

In addition to offering constant laughter for the audience, the film delves into pressing social issues and current trends, such as the strained relationship between fathers-in-law and sons-in-law, job discrimination, well-meaning lies, and employer exploitation. Moreover, it satirizes conspicuous displays of wealth by pretentious affluent individuals.

The cast and crew of "Godspeed" pose for a photo at the premiere in Beijing, April 24, 2023. [Photo courtesy of Askwin]

Produced by Han Han, a renowned Chinese writer, filmmaker, and race car enthusiast, and his Shanghai PMF Pictures, known for several box office hits featuring cars, racing and road trips, "Godspeed" showcases several talented comedians from the esteemed comedy brand Mahua FunAge. The movie is slated for nationwide release on April 28. It is anticipated to perform well at the box office, as it is the only comedy film screening in theaters during the May Day holiday period.