These documentaries about China show a vast and culturally rich nation that has captivated the world with its ancient history, rapid modernization, and diverse landscapes.
From ambitious infrastructure projects to intimate portrayals of everyday life, these documentaries provide a nuanced understanding of China’s multifaceted identity, offering a front-row seat to its challenges, triumphs, and the ever-evolving narrative of a nation at the crossroads of tradition and modernity.
Documentaries About China
Of course, there are many other documentaries about China than those mentioned here, but these are some of the best ones that give a good overall view of the country.
I have spent two months travelling to many different parts of China and it’s one of the most fascinating countries that I have visited.
Last Train Home (2009)
“Last Train Home” primarily focuses on the massive migration of Chinese workers during the Chinese New Year, known as Chunyun, which is the world’s largest annual human migration.
The documentary follows one particular family, the Zhangs, who are among the millions of migrant workers in China. They leave their rural village in Sichuan province to work in the bustling factories of Guangdong province. However, they only get a chance to return home once a year during the Chinese New Year.
The film captures the emotional and physical toll of this migration on the Zhang family, highlighting the sacrifices they make for the promise of a better life. It explores the generational gap and the impact of the parent’s absence on their children, who are left in the care of their grandparents.
“Last Train Home” provides a poignant look at the human cost of rapid industrialization and economic development in China. It also sheds light on the broader issues of labour conditions, urbanization, and the struggles faced by migrant workers.
One Child Nation (2019)
“One Child Nation” explores the social and political impact of China’s one-child policy, which was implemented in 1979 and officially phased out in 2015, replaced by a two-child policy.
The documentary is a personal and investigative journey by Nanfu Wang, who was born in China and later became a mother herself. Through interviews with family members, villagers, and officials, as well as archival footage, the film delves into the far-reaching consequences of the one-child policy on Chinese families and society.
“One Child Nation” addresses various aspects of the policy, including forced sterilizations, abortions, and the abandonment of newborns, particularly girls. It also examines the cultural and psychological effects of a policy that shaped family dynamics and influenced the value placed on male offspring.
The filmmakers expose the coercive measures and propaganda used to enforce the one-child policy and shed light on the emotional toll it took on individuals and families. The documentary also considers the implications of the policy’s legacy in contemporary China.
Wild China (2008)
“Wild China” is a nature documentary television series produced by the BBC Natural History Unit. The series consists of six episodes, each exploring different regions and aspects of China’s diverse and unique natural environments.
The episodes of “Wild China” cover a wide range of topics, including the country’s varied landscapes, wildlife, flora, and the interactions between nature and culture. The series uses stunning cinematography and storytelling to showcase the beauty and ecological richness of China.
The six episodes are:
- “Heart of the Dragon”: This episode introduces viewers to the landscapes of China, from the mountains to the deserts, and explores the diverse ecosystems that exist within the country.
- “Shangri-La”: Focusing on the Hengduan Mountains, this episode explores the unique biodiversity found in this region, including rare and elusive species.
- “Tibet”: This episode delves into the high-altitude landscapes of Tibet and explores the adaptations of wildlife and people to the extreme conditions.
- “Beyond the Great Wall”: The series explores the northern regions of China, including the Gobi Desert, and the wildlife that thrives in these challenging environments.
- “Land of the Panda”: This episode is dedicated to the giant panda and the forests of Sichuan, home to this iconic and endangered species.
- “Tides of Change”: The final episode explores China’s coastal regions and the diverse ecosystems found along its shores.
“Wild China” is excellent for its breathtaking cinematography, informative content, and its ability to showcase the natural wonders of China.
Up the Yangtze (2007)
“Up the Yangtze” provides a unique perspective on the social and environmental impacts of the construction of the Three Gorges Dam on the Yangtze River in China. The dam is one of the largest hydroelectric projects in the world.
The documentary primarily follows the lives of two young individuals, Yu Shui and Chen Bo Yu, who are both affected by the construction of the dam. Yu Shui is a sixteen-year-old girl from a poor family, and she is forced to leave school to work on a cruise ship that caters to Western tourists.
Chen Bo Yu, on the other hand, comes from a wealthier background but faces personal and family challenges.
“Up the Yangtze” explores the contrasts between the lives of these two young people and provides a humanistic perspective on the broader social and environmental changes occurring as a result of the dam project.
The film touches on themes such as the displacement of communities, the loss of cultural heritage, and the impact on the environment.
Plastic China (2016)
“Plastic China” provides a close look at the impact of plastic waste and recycling industries on individuals and communities in China. It specifically focuses on the lives of people working in small-scale plastic recycling facilities.
The documentary follows the daily lives of a family living and working in a plastic recycling workshop. It explores the environmental and health hazards associated with the processing of plastic waste, as well as the economic challenges faced by those involved in the industry.
The film also examines the broader issue of China’s role as a major global importer of plastic waste.
“Plastic China” highlights the complexities of the global recycling trade and the environmental consequences of improper disposal and recycling methods. It addresses the challenges faced by developing countries in dealing with the vast amounts of plastic waste generated worldwide.
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Joshua: Teenager vs. Superpower (2017)
“Joshua: Teenager vs. Superpower” follows the story of Joshua Wong, a young activist from Hong Kong who played a key role in the pro-democracy movement known as the Umbrella Revolution.
The documentary captures Joshua Wong’s journey as a teenager who becomes a prominent political figure advocating for democratic reforms in Hong Kong. The Umbrella Revolution, which took place in 2014, saw widespread protests and demonstrations calling for greater electoral freedom in the semi-autonomous region.
“Joshua: Teenager vs. Superpower” documents Joshua Wong’s activism, his organizing efforts, and his fearless stance against the powerful authorities in both Hong Kong and mainland China.
The film provides insights into the challenges faced by the younger generation in their pursuit of democratic rights and the impact of their activism on the broader political landscape.
The title reflects the contrast between the seemingly powerless youth and the superpower that is China, portraying the resilience and determination of young activists like Joshua Wong in their fight for political freedom.
China’s Stolen Children (2007)
“China’s Stolen Children” explores the issue of child trafficking in China, focusing on the abduction and sale of children for adoption. This documentary sheds light on the illegal and often corrupt practices associated with the adoption industry in China.
The film investigates the darker side of international adoption, revealing instances where children are stolen from their families and sold to orphanages or directly to prospective adoptive parents. It delves into the challenges and ethical concerns surrounding international adoption and exposes the human trafficking networks involved in this illicit trade.
“China’s Stolen Children” aims to raise awareness about the complexities and moral dilemmas associated with international adoption processes in China. It also emphasizes the need for increased regulation and scrutiny to ensure the legitimacy and ethical treatment of children in the adoption system.
Please Vote for Me (2007)
“Please Vote for Me” provides a fascinating and sometimes humorous look at democracy in action within the context of a third-grade class election in Wuhan, China. The documentary follows three candidates – Cheng Cheng, Luo Lei, and Xu Xiaofei – as they vie for the position of class monitor.
The film captures the intense competition among the young candidates and the various strategies they employ to win votes. It offers a glimpse into the political dynamics at play, even in a microcosmic setting like a school election.
“Please Vote for Me” not only provides insights into the political process but also raises questions about the nature of democracy, the role of authority, and the impact of competition on human behaviour.
The documentary is known for its candid portrayal of the children’s experiences and the societal expectations placed on them as they engage in the democratic process. The film is one of the best documentaries about China for its thought-provoking and entertaining approach to exploring democratic values and processes within a Chinese cultural context.
China’s Mega Projects (2016)
This documentary series explores some of China’s most ambitious infrastructure projects, including the construction of bridges, highways, and high-speed rail.
China has undergone a massive transformation over the past few decades and having visited many parts of China myself, I have seen first-hand that there is new construction everywhere.
Although some of the episodes will be old now and the projects completed this series will still give a fascinating insight into how they went about it.
Wild China With Ray Mears (2021)
I’ll end this list of the best documentaries about China with one of my favourite outdoorsmen, Ray Mears.
His Wild China series consists of 7 episodes and he focuses on the geography of several Chinese landscapes. He searches for some of China’s most iconic wildlife and native plants while also showing the stunning environments in which they live.
This is actually one of my favourite documentary series about China.
China
Documentaries about China offer a lens into the heart of this enigmatic country, delving into its historical tapestry, societal dynamics, economic transformations, and the complex interplay between tradition and progress.
For more on the region have a look at the 10 best documentaries about Hong Kong.
And the 15 best documentaries about Taiwan.
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