Windswept shores, winding coastal roads, and the quiet strength of a fishing village—this is the backdrop of "破风者" (Pò Fēng Zhě,literally translating to Tailwind Rider), a new coming-of-age sports drama that recently wrapped filming on the island of Pingtan.

Pingtan, located off the coast of Fujian province and the Chinese mainland's closest point tothe island of Taiwan, is known for its rugged beauty and maritime heritage. As China's second international tourism island after Hainan, it now finds itself in the cinematic spotlight as the setting for a story about dreams, grit, and the ride of a lifetime.

At the heart of Tailwind Rider is A Chang, a teenager from a humble fishing family. His ordinary life takes a turn when he encounters a cycling team racing around the island. Inspired, he sets out to pursue his own racing dream—guided by a retired national champion named Xu Guanjun. Through setbacks, struggle, and determination, A Chang rises against the odds to compete on the professional stage.

Director Ma Xiaodao chose Pingtan for more than just its striking visuals. "The wind here is a character of its own," he noted. "Every frame needed to breathe with it." From traditional villages and fishing harbors to mountainous roads and open highways, the island offered the perfect terrain to mirror the protagonist's emotional journey.

In one pivotal scene, A Chang uses sailing wisdom passed down from his father to navigate unpredictable wind zones—transforming challenge into opportunity. It's a symbolic moment that captures the essence of the film: to ride not just with the wind, but against it when needed.

Filming spanned multiple locations across the island and was met with enthusiastic support from the local community. The cast and crew praised Pingtan for its authenticity and warmth, calling the experience both logistically seamless and creatively inspiring.

Now entering post-production, Tailwind Rider is expected to premiere in early July. When it does, audiences will be taken on a visual journey that celebrates youth, ambition, and the unique energy of an island shaped by the sea and the wind.