Not One Less (1999)

In an isolated hamlet nestled in the mountains, the community's sole educator is compelled to depart for a month. The only substitute the mayor can find is a 13-year-old girl, Wei Minzhi. Her teaching tools are limited to a single stick of chalk for each day, and the promise of an extra 10 yuan if every student remains when the teacher returns. However, the harsh reality of poverty soon strikes, forcing the class's mischief-maker, Zhang Huike, to abandon his education and venture into the city for work. Undeterred by the odds, the tenacious Minzhi vows to retrieve him. Rallying her remaining 26 pupils, she orchestrates a plan to fund her journey. Hitching a ride to the bustling Jiangjiakou City, she embarks on a relentless search for Huike, who is lost amidst the city's chaos, begging for sustenance. Driven by her stubborn determination, Minzhi becomes the potential beacon of hope for Huike and the future of their village school.

Not One Less is a drama movie featuring Wei Minzhi and directed by Zhang Yimou.

Not One Less is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Tubi TV.

It is also possible to buy Not One Less on Amazon Video, Apple TV and Vudu.