Finding your next obsession
Finding your next obsession

Based on a true story, USC graduate Shalin Shah leaves behind the expectations of his Indian-American family and his girlfriend Fiona to serve as a Peace Corps volunteer in Peru. But when a persistent cough leads to a devastating diagnosis of synovial sarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer, Shalin is forced to return home and confront a future he never anticipated. Surrounded by his family, Fiona, and his closest friends, he begins to reconsider what it means to live with purpose when time can no longer be taken for granted. As Shalin’s perspective deepens, his reflections on gratitude, love, and mortality inspire the essay “Thank You, Cancer,” which is published by HuffPost and goes viral with readers around the world. A devastatingly beautiful story of family, resilience, and the lasting impact of one life, Paper Flowers is a reminder to cherish the people we love and the moments that give life meaning. #SunsetsForShalin
LUXEN Decision Guide
A focused choice when you want a story with a clear identity and enough detail to make the choice feel intentional.
Best fit
Who it is for
A good fit when you already know the general kind of movie you want and want a little more context before pressing play.
Commitment
Light commitment · 1h 40m
Use the runtime as a quick check against how much time you have tonight.
Start here
Read the synopsis.
Read the synopsis, then use the drama and family cues to decide whether the tone fits.
Cast
Tap a cast member to discover more of their work.