"Full Circle" premieres at the Beijing International Film Festival on Monday, April 23. [Photo/Mtime.com]

The opening film of the Beijing International Film Festival "Full Circle" was screened at the National Convention Center on Monday, April 23, Mtime.com reports.

Director Zhang Yang and a number of the film's lead actors attended the event. CCTV host Bai Yansong, director Jia Zhangke and actresses Xu Jinglei and Huo Siyan also attended the premiere in support of the film.

A final trailer featuring 30 esteemed elderly actors was released during the screening.

"Do not underestimate the ability and energy of old people. Don't just think that elderly people can only lie in bed," Director Zhang Yang appealed to everyone, "Cooperating with these older artists is a big step for me."

"Full Circle" tells the story of a group of senior citizens who try to escape from a retirement home to pursue their dreams. The film reflects upon the current social issue regarding children who put their aging parents into retirement homes without visiting them on a regular basis.

The movie will be released on May 8 on the mainland.