Review of Up the Yangtze (2007) by M D — 26 Apr 2009

This documentary follows a poor family on the shores of the mighty river as they live against the impending flood. Following the construction of the massive Three Gorges Dam, countless Chinese would be displaced, losing their homes and their farming land.

This film follows this significant event that mirrors the changing country. A rather intimate look into the lives of kids as they get jobs working on tour boats for gawking Americans, whose presence alters and degrades the workers.

Change is unstoppable; while the old move along to get out of the way the young adapt and reshape themselves. A well-told story that becomes more apparent after watching, more important with time, and more depressing with the path weâ??re on.

Yungâ??s well-received piece is has an unfortunate existence whose importance will only build with time.