One of the powers of art, and cinema in particular, is its ability to consider similar subjects through differing perspectives and forms to arrive at new ways of understanding. The three films in this series all look at modern China and its changes through rapid globalization and urbanization in their own distinctive way.

Moving from an immersive train journey considering class amid an economic boom, to a series of layered portraits tracking subtle shifts over the course of ten years, and finally, a stylish mystery observing urban and suburban life, none of these films are didactic explorations of modern China. Yet, they all bring about enlightening insight into changing ways of life. Together, they are also brilliant examples of how the expanding bounds of cinema can conjure powerful perception and empathy.

Bette Berlau

Actor