The screening will be introduced by Dr. Qi Zhang, Assistant Professor, SALIS, Dublin City University.

Chinese filmmaker Gu Xiaogang’s debut feature is set in his hometown of Fuyang, south-east China. Fuyang is going through dramatic changes – a humble place now being overwhelmed by social and economic upheavals as it transforms into a district of Hangzhou, the city that will host the 2022 Asian Games.

Working with local people, family and friends, and shot over the course of two years, Xiaogang tells the story of four brothers, and the profound connections they have with their surroundings, played out against the backdrop of the changing seasons, the life of the river, and the immense and emotional transformation of the city. This strikingly beautiful film, full of sweeping long takes and breathtaking scenery, is crafted with meticulous detail.

Notes by Marie-Pierre Richard.

Screening as part of the East Asia Film Festival Ireland 2020 – March 26th to 29th. Multi-film pass available: 5 films for €50.