China Concerto

Bo Wang's fascinating documentary examines a schism in contemporary China, or as Wang puts it, “capitalism putting on the face of socialism.” Even as China prospers through increased capitalist activity and a certain amount of democracy, the country continues to cling to old values, driven by ideological nostalgia that is apparent in both government bureaucracy and cultural life. This is best exemplified by the “red culture” campaign launched by the city of Chongqing's former Communist Party chief, Bo Xilai (whose rapidly ascending political star plummeted after he was found guilty of corruption in 2013). China's “democratic dictatorship” not only bans some forms of commercial television—preferring to broadcast old Chinese movies about the joys of joining the party—but also makes homegrown pop songs indistinguishable from political anthems and immerses theater in collectivist ideals. Wang's cinematic essay takes the form of a series of fictional letters describing a man's trip to China, read in voiceover narration by an unidentified female. The letter writer says his goal is to “get past the seduction of aesthetics” and not be personally swayed by the steady drumbeat of the propaganda machine. Wang includes plenty of examples—such as film clips and excerpts from pop concerts and stage productions—to illustrate how the yearning for a bygone China is rampant in daily life. But (befitting the title) China Concerto is actually more bemused than accusatory—a fine reflective piece about the difficulties of holding a grip on reality while undergoing cultural upheaval. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh)