Jia Zhangke, known for his incisive portraits of contemporary Chinese society, is set to embark on a new cinematic adventure with "Mamma Dunhuang." The film will follow a woman on an extensive drive from Dunhuang, a historic city in western China, all the way to the country's eastern coastline.

"I really love western China, and I go to Dunhuang quite often," Jia shared with Variety. He highlighted Dunhuang's historical significance as a crucial transit hub on the ancient Silk Road, a point from which one could historically reach as far as Rome. Yet, it stands geographically distant from the ocean. "So this whole film is a continental story that starts in Dunhuang and travels from the west to the eastern coastline – she drives until the sea comes into view," he explained, underscoring the vast scope of the protagonist's journey.

Adding an intriguing contemporary layer, the film's narrative will feature artificial intelligence as a tool used by the homebound woman to assist her on this grand voyage. However, Jia was quick to clarify his approach to AI in the production process itself. "I will not use AI in making ‘Mamma Dunhuang,'" he stated unequivocally. "It only plays a role in the story."

Zhao Tao, celebrated for her powerful performances and a long-standing muse for Jia, is confirmed to lead the film. Her past accolades include a David di Donatello Award for best actress for her role in "Shun Li and the Poet." Pre-production for "Mamma Dunhuang," including location scouting and production design, is scheduled to commence after the conclusion of the 10th Pingyao Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon International Film Festival at the end of September, with shooting anticipated for early winter.