Beijing

Duration: 1600

Year Published: 1980

Creator: Sue Yung Lin

Complete Record: Conveys the texture and flavor of the venerable Chinese capital through a close-up look at a number of inhabitants, both young and old. Includes a backstage look at the Peking opera, a family reunion of four generations previously dispersed to far-flung outposts and an interview with Pu Jie, the brother of China's last emperor. Explores the Chinese urban experience, past and present. Focuses on the historical sites, scenery, and culture in Peking, China, and observes the activities of its modern residents. Opens with footage of the Great Wall of China. Gives history of the founding of BEIJING, accompanied by shots of the BEIJING skyline and palaces. Shots of the Forbidden City, kids running down narrow alleyways, and people in courtyards. Interview with elderly Chinese men, followed by a walk around the Forbidden City with one of these men. Photographs of Chairman Mao. Tainanmen Square . Archival footage of huge crowds and military parades. A man flies a kite. Shot of young sailors. The Boulevard of Perpetual Peace crowded with bicyclists. Market vendors selling their wares- food, cloth. Interview with two elderly women. An indoor market, shots of a butcher working. Family making dumplings together at home. A group of men practicing Tai Chi in a park. A small bird in a bird cage. A man shows the camera a carved pipe. Peking Opera/ BEIJING Opera performers dancing and singing in traditional costume. Interview with former opera performer. A performer dressing and applying make up before a performance. Small row boats on a body of water. Small school children singing. School children exercising outdoors. Teachers being interviewed. College students being interviewed.