Nešković, Marta and Sun, Hongyun (2024) SITU ZHAODUN’S LEGACY: AN ENDURING CONTRIBUTION TO SOCIO-CULTURAL CINEMATOGRAPHY. In: Film and Politics. Institute for Political Studies, Belgrade, pp. 297-316. ISBN 978-86-7419-388-4

Text 297-316.pdf Download (2MB)

Abstract

This article pays homage to Professor Situ Zhaodun, cel�ebrated as the “Father of Chinese Documentary Film”. Emphasizing his profound influence on both documen�tary filmmaking and film education in China, the piece highlights his four decades at the Beijing Film Academy, where he refined his teaching methods to foster origi�nality and cultural engagement. Situ’s approach, merg�ing modernity with a profound respect for life and hu�manity, has left a deep imprint on Chinese cinema. He fostered a filmmaking approach that was deeply rooted in real-life experiences and local contexts. Situ’s goal was to pursue a more profound exploration and under�standing of China, not through the lens of dramatized narratives but through the authentic representation of everyday lives and cultural realities. Furthermore, the article recognizes Situ’s instrumental role in nurturing successful Chinese filmmakers in both documentary and feature filmmaking. His visionary contributions and pedagogical methods have been crucial in developing a distinct narrative style in Chinese cinema, making his legacy a foundational element in the evolution and enrichment of Chinese film education and the broader cinematic arts. Situ’s teachings continue to resonate across various cinematic disciplines, underscoring their enduring relevance.

Actions (login required)

View Item