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Once Upon a Time in Shanghai is quite a fascinating documentary that really pulls you into a world that's often overlooked. Shot in the eponymous slum of Baku, it juxtaposes the stark reality of life there against the backdrop of towering skyscrapers representing wealth. The pacing is deliberate, allowing viewers to soak in the raw atmosphere of the dilapidated houses and the daily struggles of the residents. There's this palpable sense of resilience in their faces, a kind of silent defiance against the opulence surrounding them. The practical effects, if you can call them that, are just life itself played out on screen, no flashy gimmicks. It’s a slice of life that feels hauntingly real, and I think that’s what makes it distinctive. Worth the watch.
Explores socio-economic contrastsFocus on personal storiesUnique setting in Azerbaijan
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