You know about social media “influencers.” You may have heard about China’s booming online scene. Where the two meet is a Chinese digital bazaar that houses thriving live streamers who can earn as much as $200k a month.

But can virtual relationships replace human connections? And what happens when a plot befitting of “Black Mirror” comes to real life?

Come and find out at a screening of the documentary film “People’s Republic of Desire,” which The New York Times has called “a contemplation of internet fame and social isolation,” and The Los Angeles Times has described as “invariably surprising and never less than compelling.” Following the screening will feature a conversation and Q&A with the film’s director Hao Wu.

The second in our Decoding China Series, brought to you by the Paulson Institute and University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy, the event will begin promptly at 5:30pm to ensure enough time for the screening and the conversation.

The event is free and open to the public.

Event Schedule:

Doors Open: 5:00pm

Film Screening: 5:30pm

Conversation with Hao Wu: 7:00pm - 7:30pm

About the Director

Originally trained as a molecular biologist, the filmmaker Hao Wu traveled to the Internet world before focusing on filmmaking. He held various management positions at technology companies including Excite@Home, Yahoo China and Alibaba. From 2008-2011, he was the China Country Manager for TripAdvisor, the largest travel website in the world.

Wu’s documentary films have received funding support from The Ford Foundation JustFilms, ITVS, Sundance Institute, Tribeca Film Institute, NYSCA and international broadcasters. His first feature documentary, The Road to Fame, co-produced with BBC, VPRO, CNEX and DR, has broadcasted in over ten countries. The film won the Grand Jury Award and Best Editing Award at the 2014 Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival. His latest feature documentary, People’s Republic of Desire, about China’s live-streaming phenomenon, won the Grand Jury Award at the 2018 SXSW and broadcasted nationally on PBS Independent Lens. The New York Times calls the film “hypercharged,” while The Los Angeles Times says it’s “invariably surprising and never less than compelling.” His latest short, All in My Family, is a Netflix Original Documentary and launched globally in May 2019.

FAQs

How can I contact the organizer with any questions?

Please reach out to us at harris-events@uchicago.edu.

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?

A printed ticket is not necessary as we usually have a registration list at the door. However, it is a good idea to keep the ticket handy in your email on your mobile device in case there are any errors at the door.

Registrations are closed

Decoding China @1871 w/ Hao Wu