“Once Upon a Time in the Middle East” Poster
Arriving in theaters across the U.S. and Canada on October 9th is Wen Muye’s Once Upon a Time in the Middle East, a thriller that has also been described as an anti war comedy drama and culinary tale.
One of China’s biggest stars, Shen Teng (Mission Milano), leads the acclaimed international box office sensation about a chef who transforms a struggling restaurant into a refuge and risks everything to protect his community when war engulfs the city.
Seeking a fresh start, chef Xu Fu travels to the Middle East to support his family and repay his debts. Alongside restaurant manager Ma Junsheng, he transforms the struggling Dragon Restaurant into a thriving business. But when war engulfs the city, their hard-won success is shattered and the restaurant becomes a refuge for those caught in the conflict. As danger closes in, Xu Fu must risk everything to protect his newfound community and preserve a small beacon of hope amid the devastation.
Once Upon a Time in the Middle East also stars Jiang Qiming (Take Off), Omar Sharif (Barra el-Manhag), Aarif Lee Zhi-ting (A Legend), and Sherif Sabby (An Upper Egyptian).
🔥 Footnote: Wen Muye (Dying to Survive, Nice View) is one of China’s most notable young directors. He studied directing at Northeast Normal University before earning his master’s degree from Beijing Film Academy, where he studied under Tian Zhuangzhuang. His films often focus on ordinary people and social issues, blending grounded drama with accessible, mainstream storytelling.
Check your local listings for showtimes. Until then, watch Well Go USA’s Trailer below:
