Two intrepid expats, British Daniel Newham and French Cleo Luden, are set to share their immersive exploration of Chinese culture through the upcoming documentary "China's Culture Journey," which premieres on March 4 on Dragon TV. Their exciting adventures, captured during last summer's travels, provide viewers with an insightful look at the vast cultural heritage of China and its modern vibrancy.
The four-episode documentary, produced by Aoxue Studio of DocuChina Co. Ltd., under the Shanghai Media Group, chronicles the duo’s nearly 20,000-kilometer odyssey across China, where they visited 16 remarkable landmarks including nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Some highlights from their travels include Hangzhou's Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City, the Grand Canal's section in Yangzhou, and the Temple of Confucius located in Qufu, Shandong province.
The documentary is structured to reflect not just on the stunning visuals of cultural sites but also on the essence of the experiences lived by Newham and Luden as they interacted with the locals. Their journeys serve as a lens through which audiences can appreciate the depth and richness of China's civilization, including its preservation efforts spanning over 5,000 years.
Ao Xue, the documentary's director, expressed his aspirations for the project, stating, "With this documentary, I would like to show overseas audiences a culturally prosperous China. Chinese people value their culture, protect heritages, respect traditions and have love for education. Taking culture as the carrier, we hope to talk with the world, show the spirit of the Chinese people and make audiences understand Chinabetter." This perspective undoubtedly serves as the film's mission, engaging viewers with the cultural narratives often overlooked.
Throughout their travels, Newham and Luden experienced daily life across various regions, gaining insights not just from the historical and cultural artifacts but also from the people and their stories. These encounters emphasized the significance of cultural exchanges, showcasing the unique customs and practices of the different communities they visited.
Notably, the documentary does not shy away from discussing the innovative developments of traditional culture in China. It brings forth fascinating stories of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to maintain and evolve intangible cultural heritages, ensuring these elements of identity and tradition are preserved for generations to come.
By positioning cultural immersion at the forefront, "China's Culture Journey" aims to spark international interest, encouraging audiences around the world to connect with China on a more personal level. Director Ao Xue highlighted the documentary's goal to transform perceptions: “It will be more exciting if they gain interest in China through this documentary and come here to see this nation with their own eyes.”
The series promises to be an engaging and enlightening experience for viewers, blending stunning cinematography with deep cultural insights. By focusing on their personal narrative intertwined with broader themes of cultural preservation and innovation, Newham and Luden provide both authenticity and depth to China's image.
With the first episode set to air very soon, viewers can look forward to being immersed not only in stunning visuals but also the rich narratives of Chinese traditions, societal values, and the remarkable stories of those who help keep its culture alive. Such cultural documentaries play an important role not only for educational purposes but also for fostering global connections, promoting mutual respect, and encouraging curiosity about diverse civilizations.
Four episodes await audiences eager for authentic storytelling, poised to inspire those who may wish to experience similar adventures. By exploring remarkable sites and sharing personal experiences, "China's Culture Journey" endeavors to break down barriers and cultivate appreciation, reinforcing the idea of a shared human experience rooted in the values of respect, heritage, and cultural love.