New flick shows role of village chiefs in China’s ‘economic miracle’
A new movie portraying the remarkable achievements made by village leaders on the frontlines of China’s campaign to alleviate poverty is due to be released on Dec. 3.
Veteran actress Zhang Kaili attends the premiere of “My People My Devotion” in Beijing on Nov. 27, 2021.[Photo provided to China Plus]
Critics have described “My People My Devotion” as an unprecedented attempt in journalism as it draws on a vast trove of materials once edited for TV news to shine a light on the stories of those who made a difference.
Some 100 million people in rural China were able to shake off absolute poverty within an eight-year period, according to a textbook released by the State Council Information Office.
Around three million village heads are believed to have played a crucial role in achieving this milestone. Some helped to transform the sheep-breeding business in hard-to-reach highland villages, turning this into a mainstay industry for local farmers.
The premiere of “My People My Devotion” was held in Beijing on Nov. 27, 2021. The movie portrays the remarkable achievements made by village leaders on the frontlines of China’s campaign to alleviate poverty.[Photo provided to China Plus]
Another story in the movie focuses on a village secretary who is remembered fondly for launching kindergartens and primary schools in a remote mountain hamlet.
Their tales are also based on a series of reports from China’s Xinhua News Agency about the touching deeds of these village heads.
The movie's director Ren Jie said his team spent three years preparing the script and finally centered on four individuals whose outstanding contributions not only captured the spirit of the time but deserved to be immortalized on film.
“This group of people should be remembered by more and more people,” Ren added.
The premiere of “My People My Devotion” was held in Beijing on Nov. 27, 2021. The movie portrays the remarkable achievements made by village leaders on the frontlines of China’s campaign to alleviate poverty.[Photo provided to China Plus]