Din Tao: Leader of the Parade

In the bustling streets of Taichung, a tightly‑knit troupe keeps ancient religious processions alive with thunderous drums, gleaming face paint, and towering god puppets that demand martial skill and unyielding stamina. The community views these performers with a mixture of reverence and mistrust, branding their art as something on the fringe of society. At the heart of this world is Ah‑Tai, a restless young man who has spent his childhood shadowing the rituals of his parents’ troupe, yet feels the pull of a different rhythm.

His father, the stern Uncle Da, runs the troupe with a discipline forged from years of training, while his mother, Aunt Da, offers quiet support that steadies the family’s legacy. A simmering rivalry with Wu‑cheng, a fellow disciple of the same master, adds an undercurrent of competition that shapes the troupe’s identity. When Ah‑Tai drifts away to Taipei to chase the electric pulse of rock music, he discovers a voice that clashes with the ancient chants of his upbringing. A mysterious figure in a blue coat later summons him back, hinting that his journey is far from over.

Returning to the modest temple that doubles as the troupe’s headquarters, Ah‑Tai finds a colorful cast of comrades: Min‑min, a determined young woman; Li‑Zi, whose quiet focus hides a deeper strength; and A‑Xin, a soul scarred by hardship. Beside them stands Betelnut‑Cheng, a middle‑aged veteran juggling a street‑side betelnut stand and his place in the performance world. The stage is set for a clash of traditions and fresh ideas—a young musician confronting the weight of heritage, the expectations of his lineage, and the ever‑present rhythm of the streets. The film vibrates with the energy of a parade in motion, inviting the audience to wonder how old rites might find new melody.

Last Updated: September 26, 2025 at 04:39