During the 69th BFI London Film Festival, Deming Chen, director, and Hansen Lin, producer, discussed their deeply personal project, “Always”. The film was showcased as part of the festival’s diverse selection, highlighting its poetic approach to storytelling. “Always” delicately portrays the life of a young boy in rural China and his extraordinary talent for poetry. The conversation explored the origins of the story, the unique visual style, and the challenges of presenting such a nuanced narrative to an international audience.

Discovering Gong: The Genesis of “Always“

Chen shared the serendipitous story of how he discovered Gong, the young poet at the heart of “Always”. In 2018, Chen returned to his hometown in Hunan province and connected with a volunteer teacher who shared Gong’s poem on social media. Deeply moved by its depth and originality, Chen sought out Gong and found a kindred spirit, recognizing echoes of his own childhood in the boy’s experiences. This connection ignited his desire to tell Gong’s story and capture the essence of rural Chinese life through a lyrical lens.

A Lyrical Approach to Filmmaking

Chen explained his deliberate decision to diverge from traditional documentary styles for “Always”. He aimed to create a visually poetic experience, emphasizing the beauty and stillness of the landscape and daily village life. This approach is reflected in the film’s pacing, evocative shots, and even the carefully crafted subtitles, all designed to evoke a sense of lyrical emotion.

The Power and Ephemerality of Childhood Poetry

The interview highlighted Gong’s remarkable maturity and sensitivity, which often seem beyond his years. Chen acknowledged the bittersweet reality that Gong’s future may not lead him to become a professional poet due to societal constraints and evolving personal interests. The film ultimately serves as a poignant memory, preserving Gong’s poems and experiences for future generations.

Personal Reflections and Universal Themes

Chen revealed his personal connection to Gong’s story, recalling childhood memories of solitude and imagination. This emotional resonance underscores the film’s broader themes of memory, identity, and the enduring power of childhood experiences. Hansen Lin also reflected on his connection to the project, noting shared experiences of being “left behind” and the universal emotions that tie us all together.

Navigating Cultural Perceptions

Lin discussed the varied reactions to “Always” from different audiences, including some who interpreted its depiction of rural poverty as a critique of China. He clarified that the filmmakers sought to portray reality without judgment, highlighting the challenges faced by rural communities and efforts to improve their living conditions. Their primary aim was to showcase the resilience and beauty of the human spirit, especially the children’s capacity for creativity and hope.

The Journey of Distribution and the Hope for Connection

Despite awards and recognition, Lin acknowledged the challenges of distributing a film that defies conventional expectations. He expressed a desire to reach audiences who appreciate the film’s artistic vision and its message of hope and resilience. Lin hopes that “Always” will inspire young viewers to embrace their creativity and find beauty in life’s simple moments.

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