Starry Starry Night

Xiao Mei enjoys a peaceful life in the mountains with her grandparents, filled with warmth and simplicity. This idyllic setting fosters a deep connection with nature and her family, allowing her to appreciate innocence and freedom.

Xiao Mei moves to the city to reunite with her parents, leaving behind the comfort of her village life. Upon arrival, she is struck by the cold, unwelcoming atmosphere of urban living, which starkly contrasts the warmth she once knew.

As Xiao Mei grows accustomed to city life, she witnesses her parents' mounting work-related stress and their subsequent marital issues. This emotional turmoil isolates her, intensifying her feelings of nostalgia for her happy childhood.

While listening to a beautiful recorder melody from her neighbor's home, Xiao Mei discovers her new classmate Xiao Jie, a boy struggling with bullying. This moment sparks her curiosity and desire to connect with him amidst her loneliness.

After learning about the bullying Xiao Jie faces, Xiao Mei courageously intervenes to defend him. This act of kindness marks the beginning of a budding friendship, providing both children with a sense of belonging.

Xiao Mei and Xiao Jie bond further as they team up to decorate their classroom for an inter-class competition. Their teamwork fosters joy and excitement, allowing them to momentarily escape their respective troubles.

Their friendship deepens when Xiao Mei joins Xiao Jie in a mischievous act of shoplifting. This moment of rebellion arises from their desire for adventure and connection, despite the risks involved.

Tragedy strikes when Xiao Mei's beloved grandfather passes away, leading to her parents' shocking announcement of divorce. This devastating news plunges Xiao Mei into emotional turmoil, amplifying her feelings of abandonment.

Overwhelmed by grief and despair, Xiao Mei decides to run away with Xiao Jie to revisit the wooden shack from her childhood. This journey represents her longing for refuge and clarity amidst chaos.

While attempting to reach the shack, Xiao Mei and Xiao Jie wander off course and become lost in a dense forest. This moment heightens their adventure, but also poses significant challenges for the two children.

The two friends find an abandoned church to shelter for the night, providing them with a temporary respite. Inside, they share intimate stories, allowing Xiao Mei to gain insight into Xiao Jie’s struggles, which mirrors her own.

The following day, they finally reach the wooden shack where Xiao Mei reminisces about her grandfather. This visit is bittersweet as it brings back cherished memories while also highlighting her current despair.

As evening falls, Xiao Mei develops a fever caused by exhaustion, prompting Xiao Jie to carry her back to the shack. His determination to support her is evident as he contacts their parents and watches over her as she sleeps.

Xiao Mei awakens in a hospital, the reality of their adventure and its consequences weighing on her heavily. The experience marks a turning point in her understanding of friendship, love, and loss.

Years later, in the 10th grade, Xiao Mei receives a jigsaw piece that fits perfectly into her missing artwork. This moment serves as a symbol of closure and the enduring connection to her cherished memories.

Many years later, as she spends Christmas Eve in France with her stepsister, Xiao Mei stumbles upon a shop displaying a jigsaw puzzle of 'Starry Starry Night' missing a piece. This serendipitous moment echoes her past, reminding her of her journey and growth.