This Is China

About This Movie

This Is China, directed by Olivia Ellis, is a striking documentary that presents a raw lens on the socio-economic landscape of 1940s China. The film's pacing varies, oscillating between contemplative shots of ancient sites like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, to the bustling, almost frenetic energy of Shanghai's skyline. It captures a contrast that’s hard to ignore—traditional farming practices side by side with industrial advancements, the stark reality of impoverished children next to elegantly dressed models. The atmosphere feels heavy yet revealing, giving a real sense of the disparity and diversity that defined the era. Practical effects are minimal, but the authenticity of the settings is what pulls you in, and the performances of everyday people make it all the more poignant.

Unique portrayal of 1940s ChinaIntriguing juxtaposition of ancient and modernCaptures the essence of socio-economic divides