The new film There Is a Forest in the Woods starring Yu Hewei and Gao Yuanyuan has been pulled from the May Day slot and rescheduled to May 23, with strong expectations for its reception

On April 22, the film Lost in the Woods announced that its release date has been moved from the May Day holiday (May 1) to May 23, alongside two rounds of nationwide preview screenings. The strategy aims to balance early word-of-mouth momentum with audience demand.

In its statement, the production team described the change as a “schedule strategy adjustment” and apologized to cinemas and audiences. From May 2 to 5, limited preview screenings will run daily from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., with existing ticket holders able to attend as planned.

Industry insiders suggest the primary reason for the delay is to avoid intense competition during the crowded May Day release window, which features 17 films, including multiple crime thrillers similar in genre. Having been shortlisted for the Tiantan Award at the Beijing International Film Festival, the film received strong early reviews, and the new release timing may help maximize its word-of-mouth potential.

Additionally, weak pre-sale performance across the May Day slate—where even top films have yet to surpass significant milestones—has made postponement a practical move to reduce box office risks.

The dual strategy of postponement and previews has sparked debate. Supporters argue that early screenings can sustain buzz and amplify positive reception, especially with feedback praising its “emotional depth” and “strong performances.” A late-May release also offers less competition, favoring long-term box office performance.

Critics, however, warn that extensive previews may dilute the impact of the delay. If reception falls short during previews, it could negatively affect theater allocations upon release. A similar strategy used by another film last year yielded disappointing results.

Adapted from the novel by Zheng Zhi (rated 8.8 on Douban), the film marks his directorial debut. Set in Northeast China, it follows a long-buried murder case and the decades-spanning relationship between a former prison guard (played by Yu Hewei) and his former lover (played by Gao Yuanyuan), exploring themes of fate and moral consequence.

Audiences are advised to check screening schedules in advance, as the film leans more toward human drama than conventional suspense.