Chinese filmmaker Huo Meng’s heartfelt and intimate film, “Living the Land,” which delves into China’s rapidly transforming countryside in the early ’90s, will have its first public showing in competition at the Berlin International Film Festival.
The filmmakers have unveiled a clip exclusively for EbMaster.
The movie traces the life of 10-year-old Chuang, who is brought up by relatives in his rural community as his parents work in faraway cities. This storyline highlights a significant juncture where ancient farming practices clash with rapid societal and economic transformations.
Huo shares that the concept for this movie originated before his film “Crossing the Border” (2018), which was also screened at Berlin, and it’s inspired by his personal experiences growing up in rural China. Using Zhang Fan as his interpreter, the director highlights that the narrative roots deeply in China’s longstanding agricultural civilization, where the connection between land and life is unbreakable.
The film offers a thoughtful exploration of evolving family roles, which becomes especially moving when considering it within the context of China’s transformation from a traditional rural society to one influenced by technology during the reform era. In this setting, Huo explains that older generations were once highly respected for their advanced farming expertise, including understanding weather patterns and cultivation techniques. However, as technological advancements took hold in rural areas, the younger generations gained more influence due to their proficiency in modern skills, gradually eroding the elders’ traditional power and authority.
Visually, the movie uses unique long, flowing shots to create an engaging environment, deviating from the modern backdrop of “Crossing the Border.” Filming took a full year, which was advantageous due to China’s film industry now providing more resources and opportunities for such expansive independent productions, as mentioned by Huo.
In the casting, there was a strong emphasis on authenticity, with many actors having experienced the ’90s personally. This method led to surprising layers, demonstrated by an older actress who, following the completion of filming, shared that the character had motivated her to rediscover her own life.
Regarding distribution, Huo finds positive indications for independent cinema in China, pointing out backing from the Art House Film Alliance and significant events such as Shanghai and Pingyao film festivals. Although films like “Ne Zha 2” continue to shatter box office records, opportunities for more personal narratives are growing.
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Huo observes promising trends in distribution for independent cinema in China, highlighting the support from organizations like the Art House Film Alliance and prominent festivals such as Shanghai and Pingyao. Despite blockbusters like “Ne Zha 2” consistently setting new box office records, there’s an increasing space for more personal storytelling.
As a film enthusiast, I find that this movie transcends the mere depiction of rustic Chinese life; it strives to resonate with global viewers by delving into shared human experiences such as family ties, generational shifts, and the indelible impact of one’s roots. The narrative places a strong emphasis on female characters – mothers, sisters, and grandmothers – who unwaveringly uphold their families during periods of change.
I’m proudly associated with a production that sees the collaboration of Floating Light (Foshan) Film and Culture, along with Shanghai Film Group, Phoenix Legend Films, Bad Rabbit Pictures, and Lianray Pictures. For worldwide distribution, we have Berlin-based M-appeal on board.
In my perspective, “Living the Land” signifies my comeback to the silver screen after a span of seven years since “Crossing the Border.” As for what lies ahead, specific future projects are yet to be announced. However, the Berlin premiere of this film underscores the ongoing growth and global impact of Chinese independent cinema.
Watch the clip here:
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2025-02-13 11:18