Why is documentary film important?
HK: In terms of the films we just did on China, there are so many misperceptions that a documentary can help clear up. We want to show what goes on from a Chinese perspective, as opposed to a Sino-American relations perspective. Take the Cultural Revolution; if you look at if from an American perspective, it seems crazy and unbelievable. There were children informing on their parents, resulting in the parents being thrown in labor camps. If you look at it from a Chinese perspective, it made sense in terms of the politics of the day. They believed their leaders, and they were following ideals. I feel the films make a contribution because they help people to understand China in a less superficial and antagonistic way, in a more human way. And we know that China is going to be the next big economic power … Mc: Thanks for a fascinating interview.
