THE BOTANIST

96 MINUTES | DRAMA | 2025

Synopsis

Set in a remote village in Xinjiang, China, THE BOTANIST follows a young Kazakh boy named Arsin, who finds solace in the company of plants. He soon meets Meiyu, a spirited Han girl whose unpredictable nature reminds him of a rare, otherworldly plant. As their friendship blossoms, it deepens into a delicate, dreamlike allegory that blurs the lines between reality and the enchanting world of botany.  

Awards

Grand Prix for Best Film, Berlinale Generation Kplus 2025

FIPRESCI Prize, Hong Kong International Film Festival 2025

Best Actor, Beijing International Film Festival 2025

Credits

DIRECTED BY: Jing Yi (feature debut)

PRODUCERS: Zuolong Shan (RESURRECTION, LONG DAY’S JOURNEY INTO NIGHT, LOVE IS GUN), Qi Ai

CAST: Yesl Jahseleh, Ren Zihan, Jalen Nurdaolet, Sarhet Eramazan, Songhat Jomajan 

PRESS QUOTES

“[A] graceful and ephemeral drama” 

The Hollywood Reporter

"A first feature of great visual beauty and sensitivity"

The Film Verdict

“As transportive a slice of summer melancholy as one could ask for”

The Film Stage

"Jing’s facility with young, non-professional actors also helps draw out an understated performance from Yesl, who rises to the challenge of commanding the frame”

 IndieWire