When violin prodigy Xiachun and his father head to Beijing seeking fame and fortune, they soon discover a fierce world of cutthroat ambition. But when Xiaochun is "adopted" by a famous music tutor, success finally seems within reach - until a shocking discovery begins to unravel his entire world, and the boy must make the most difficult choice of his life. Can he achieve the fame his father had always hoped for without losing the extraordinary passion that sets him apart?
This story follows a well-meaning and self-sacrificing father who is determined to have his son succeed by any means possible - even if that means sacrificing their relationship. Together shows the love a father has for his son and a father's desire to establish a life for his son better than his own - perhaps not realising that rather than a secure financial future, Xiaochun only wishes to remain close to his father.
During the season of the Olympics, it is hard not to imagine this same story being played out in the lives of hundreds of Chinese athletes. We hear commentary of the Chinese gymnasts leaving home at the age of three on course to fame and fortune for their entire family. This film gives a glimpse into such a life for those of us who may not be able to comprehend this seemingly strange ambition.
For those who don't typically enjoy subtitles, no need to worry, much of Together is filled with symphony as Xiachun sets out to prove his undeniable talent on the violin.
