China's successful comedy film director Feng Xiaogang is now doing something very serious. His latest blockbuster "Aftershock" is a tear-jerker set around the Tangshan earthquake, one of modern China's deadliest natural catastrophes. The 1976 disaster claimed around 250,000 lives.

 

Now the film is getting ready for its premiere in Tangshan where the disaster happened 34 years ago.

This is the track field at the Tangshan Sports Center. Staff are doing the final check. In two days, the world premiere of the film "Aftershock" will open here.

An IMAX screen has been set up, 15 meters tall and 33 meters wide. It's three or four times larger than the average screen. The world's best audio devices have also been installed to ensure the best sound.

The production of "Aftershock" is a breakthrough for the Chinese film industry. Visual effects experts from South Korea and France created the devastating scenes. New Zealand's Weta Workshop, the Oscar-winning design company behind the Lord of the Rings also gave advice on miniature models that doubled for 1976 Tangshan.

All the effects serve to better the touching story. Director Feng Xiaogang says China needs a film like this that showcases the Chinese people's love of family and their character.