In January 2005, 60-year-old migrant worker Li Shaowei moved many Chinese by taking a 600-kilometer journey to carry home the body of his friend, who died far from his hometown.

China's top comedian Zhao Benshan (right) with the stars of his new black comedy. Zhang Wei

One year later, director Zhang Yang adapted the story into a film Getting Home (Luoye Guigen).

The black comedy provokes a mix of tears and laughter. After so many films of daggers and swords flying in the air, filmgoers may feel refreshed to see something about the life of ordinary people leading a humble but happy life.

China's top comedian Zhao Benshan stars as Lao Zhao in the movie. A 50-year-old farmer-turned comedian who had an impoverished childhood, Zhao is perfect for the role.

In an obvious bid to move out of the short TV skit roles, for which he is nationally acclaimed, Zhao delivers a very convincing performance as a good natured, perseverant and hilarious farmer. All through the story he focuses not only on how to make people laugh as he does in his TV skits but also labors over the tragic scenes, making the character come alive.

Undoubtedly, Lao Zhao is the soul of the story. A nobody who insists on keeping his promise to a friend despite all odds.

He is no hero. He cannot afford to rent a car to take his friend home. He pretends to be a relative at a funeral to get some food. When he finds that the pension papers given by his friend's boss are all forged notes, he tries to commit suicide.

But ultimately his love for life, and the help he receives from the good people he meets, push him forward. The movie's last scene shows him shouting, "I am so happy!"

This is a story of finding happiness in a bitter life. The depiction of life's harshness and the character's optimism will make you smile.

Zhang Yang, both director and scriptwriter, gives the scenes an interesting balance by juxtaposing both good and bad characters.

While most passers-by help Lao Zhao, some steal his money, some cheat him, and yet others beat and rob him. But he continues to treat everyone kindly.

Having the characters come on one after the other tends to make the story a little monotonous.

Lao Zhao runs into more than 10 groups of people, with only a few staying on the screen long enough to make a deep impression. However, the focus is always on likable Lao Zhao.

Lao Zhao's long journey home is a metaphor for every one's life journey. Although we may not carry as heavy a burden as he does, his optimism in the face of hardship holds a lesson for all.

(China Daily 01/26/2007 page21)