Paper Flowers
2026 • 1h 39m • Family
Availability
Virtual
Available in CA, US
In-person
Available in CA, US
Speakers Available
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About the film
When a rare cancer diagnosis upends the lives of college sweethearts Shalin and Fiona, their Indian-American and Taiwanese-American families are compelled to confront love, loss, and what it means to show up for one another, in a true story that reveals how one couple's bond can transform a family and inspire others around the world.
Inspired by the viral essay Thank you, Cancer, "Paper Flowers" movie has received recognition and awards at film festivals worldwide, including the "Social Impact & Vision" Award at the Ojai Film Festival, "Best of Fest" Award at the Palm Springs International Film Festival, and is expected to air on PBS in early 2027, following its release on the Angel Studios platform.
Host a Kinema screening with your community to have meaningful conversations around serious illness, caregiving, grief, and what it means to live fully until the end.
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Host a screening on Kinema or email us for more information: paperflowersmovie@gmail.com
Director
Mahesh Pailoor
Producer
Asit Vyas
Awards & recognition
Palm Springs International Film Festival
Best of Fest - Top Films Award
Ojai Film Festival
Social Impact & Vision Award
SLO Film Festival
Audience Award - Best Narrative Feature Film
Sedona Film Festival
Indie Spirit Award
What people are saying
‘I highly recommend this real-life, story-based movie to those who think about the purpose of life.‘
Vijay Bhatt
‘Capturing it all, from chemotherapy to a wedding that Fiona encourages, gives everyone involved an entirely new lease on life. Shalin’s positivity is infectious and heartfelt. It inspires a manifesto that he releases to the world, becoming a universal viral sensation that encourages everyone to stop and enjoy the sunset. A well-acted and scripted film providing insight into our culture from many different angles, Paper Flowers is a meaningful film that carries you to the end in peace and happiness for its grave subject matter.‘
Sabina Dana Plasse
‘This film does more than simply recount a tale of confronting mortality; it offers a meditation on gratitude and the ability to see beauty in fleeting moments. It invites audiences to reflect on their lives, reminding them to appreciate often overlooked daily joys.‘
Chris Jones
‘Paper Flowers isn’t just a story about loss but a testament to the enduring power of a life well lived.‘
Kevin Jan
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