Cinema Asia: China

With the abyss of the Cultural Revolution far behind it, cinema in the People’s Republic of China is as vital and complex as any in the world. This program examines the so-called Fifth and Sixth Generations of Chinese filmmakers, exploring their thematic and stylistic differences and their varying approaches to domestic and international markets. It also looks at underground auteurs who use “movie cafes” to reach viewers and evade censors. China on Screen coauthor Dr. Chris Berry, director Feng Xiaogang, and others provide commentary, while tours of Hengdian World Studios and the Beijing Film Studio offer additional glimpses inside the industry. The careers of Chen Kaige and Zhang Yimou are discussed. Several film excerpts are included. Part of the series Cinema Asia.