“A film of resistance that, in discussing the past, also confronts the present-day activities of the Chinese government.” - Richard Brody, New Yorker

“A powerfully sobering and clear-eyed investigation that justifies its length through the gravity and presence of its testimony.” - Owen Gleiberman, Variety

Saturday, January 13, 11:00 a.m. | In the harrowing and fearless DEAD SOULS, acclaimed long-form documentarian Wang Bing trains his patient and empathetic lens on the dark history of China's labor camps during the 1957–59 Anti-Rightist Campaign. Unfolding over eight hours, Bing meticulously captures the testimonies of survivors who endured unimaginable atrocities. As former political prisoners recount their experiences and the inhumane conditions they faced, DEAD SOULS becomes a powerful and haunting exploration of historical trauma, governmental oppression, and the resilience of the human spirit, serving as both a historical record and a deeply moving tribute to those who suffered in silence. Program includes two intermissions.


Awards & Nominations

Nominee - Golden Eye, Cannes Film Festival
Winner - Best Documentary, Yamagata International Documentary Film Festival
Winner - Citizens’ Pride, Yamagata International Documentary Film Festival


Tickets
$20 - Film Center Members
$20 - SAIC Students/Faculty/Staff*
$30 - Students*
$40 - General Public

*Redeem discount at the box office with valid ID. One discounted ticket per ID.


Settle In SeriesBinge watching a television show or catching a double feature? Child’s play. Prove your passion for pacing with six films that test the limits of runtimes, that lean into their length, and that invite you to Settle In. Tickets include bottomless popcorn and coffee; showtimes include bathroom and stretching breaks (feel free to bring a pillow); and ticket holders have the option to add a boxed lunch to their experience ($16) courtesy of our friends at Food For Thought. Coffee generously provided by the local roasters at Dark Matter Coffee. View full series here.


The Film Center is ADA accessible. This presentation will be projected without open captions. The theater is hearing-loop equipped. For accessibility requests, please email filmcenter@saic.edu