Following the phenomenal domestic box-office success of the animated sensation Ne Zha 2, Endless Journey of Love, a new domestic animated movie aims to make a splash during the Dragon Boat Festival, a traditional box office season.

The romance marks the directorial debut of creative duo Yu Ao and Zhou Tienan, who also co-wrote the script. The plot revolves around a young woman, who can manipulate time, and a coldhearted assassin. Their lives become intertwined through a mysterious wheel of time.

Industry insiders shared their insights on the original story during the film’s premiere in Beijing on Tuesday. Scriptwriter Shu Huan praised the movie for its “sea-like imagination” while provoking deep thought about the eternal theme of time.

“The story explores the impact of loss,” Yu and Zhou explain. 

“Since we’ve both experienced the sudden departure of loved ones, we wanted to create a film that offers audiences healing through its poignant narrative.”

The film scheduled for release on Friday has already grossed over 11 million yuan ($1.5 million) in advance ticket sales, ranking second on the festival’s presale charts, according to entertainment tracker Maoyan Pro.