The Chinese war drama Once Upon a Time in the Middle East, directed by Wen Muye, has been acquired by Well Go USA Entertainment for release in the U.S.
The acquisition follows the film’s release in China, where it has grossed more than US$318 million to date.
Well Go USA Entertainment will release the film across North America on October 9, 2026.
Chinese superstar Shen Teng stars in Once Upon a Time in the Middle East as Xu Fu, a debt-burdened chef who travels to the Middle East in search of a fresh start. Working alongside restaurant manager Ma Junsheng, Xu transforms the struggling Dragon Restaurant into a thriving business and an unlikely gathering place for the surrounding community.
When war engulfs the city, their hard-won success is shattered. As the restaurant becomes a refuge for people caught in the conflict, Xu must move beyond his instinct for self-preservation and risk everything to protect the community he has come to call his own.
The film also stars Jiang Qiming, Omar Sherif and Sherif Sobhy, with a special appearance by Aarif Lee. Wen Muye co-wrote the screenplay for the film alongside Lang Qunli and Zhong Wei. Ning Hao serves as executive producer, with Wang Yibing as chief producer and Liu Mingyi as producer.
Wen is known internationally for combining socially relevant themes with accessible, character-driven storytelling. His previous feature Dying to Survive earned him Best New Director at the Golden Horse Awards and Best Directorial Debut at the Golden Rooster Awards. His credits also include Nice View and the anthology feature My People, My Country.
Watch the official trailer for Once Upon a Time in the Middle East above.
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