Taiwan horror comedy "Dead Talents Society" will debut in the Chinese mainland this weekend, arriving on the heels of a record-setting Spring Festival movie season.

A poster for "Dead Talents Society" is shown on a screen at the film's premiere in Beijing, Feb. 16, 2025. [Photo/China.org.cn]

Directed by John Hsu, who co-wrote the film with Tsai Kun-Lin, "Dead Talents Society" stars Chen Bolin, Sandrine Pinna and Gingle Wang. The film blends fantasy, scares, humor and emotional moments, creating a mix that will appeal to younger viewers.

Lee Lieh, who previously produced "The Pig, the Snake and the Pigeon," a Taiwan film that became a surprise hit last year on the Chinese mainland, also produced "Dead Talents Society." Distributors are optimistic about achieving similar success as the mainland market continues to be buoyed by Spring Festival blockbusters, particularly "Ne Zha 2."

"Dead Talents Society" premiered in Taiwan last year to positive reviews from critics and audiences. It has since received awards and nominations at various film festivals, including a nomination for best Asian Chinese language film at the 43rd Hong Kong Film Awards and a nomination for best visual effects at the 18th Asian Film Awards. It currently holds a rating of 7.6/10 on the Chinese review website Douban.

The film is set for theatrical release in the Chinese mainland on Feb. 22. The premiere, held in Beijing on Feb. 16, garnered rave reviews.