'Row to Win' wraps an inspirational story in a comedy shell

Chinese comedy "Row to Win" opens this week as part of the National Day holiday film lineup, portraying a family's humorous approach to overcoming life's difficulties.

The cast and crew of "Row to Win" pose for a photo at the film's premiere in Beijing, Sept. 26, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Askwin] 

Directed by Ma Lin and starring Huang Bo, Fan Chengcheng, Yin Tao and Li Jiaqi, "Row to Win" follows a family in a coastal town whose struggling father proposes building a combined land-and-sea gas station to solve their financial problems. His family of five eagerly supports the plan, but the seemingly simple project proves more complicated than expected.

"The film conveys a powerful message about resilience," veteran actor Huang Bo said at the premiere in Beijing on Sept. 26. "Life inevitably has its ups and downs, but family serves as a harbor offering warmth and hope. No challenge is too great to overcome when a family stands united."

"Row to Win" is adapted from Cai Chongda's best-selling book "Skin," with his friend, writer and filmmaker Han Han, serving as producer. The film opens nationwide on Sept. 30.