I’m a fan of the art styles used in propaganda; the studied use of colour and line, along with the use of mythic story to inspire the people. I expected more of a focus on the actual performances, but this was as much a documentary on how China has changed since the Cultural Revolution as it was a story of the 8 Model Works

This is a story about what has happened to selected cast and crew from the movies and, to a lesser degree, a story of contemporary youth in China. We’re treated to a couple modernized dance numbers by the kids, inspired by the were interesting; a hip hop Yang Ban Xi of sorts. Talking heads tell stories of fame, of arrest and imprisonment, and of the downfall of Madame Mao.

I would have liked to see more footage of the operas themselves, as they’re visually quite astounding. It’s an interesting piece, though I could have down without the rock video at the end, and maybe a bit tighter focus.