Yung Chang’s documentary Up the Yangtze had the honor of being the first sale at a Sundance that has turned out to be a rather quiet marketplace. The film explores the area of the Yangtze River currently being flooded by the Three Gorges Dam, the largest hydroelectric project in the world. As millions are being displaced by rising waters, luxury ships known as “farewell cruises” tour the coastal areas soon to be submerged. Chang’s film follows two young employees on once such boat, as they navigate the difficulties of working their first jobs, set against the back ground of a rapidly changing China.

Also on SpoutBlog: Karina writes about the film’s sale to Zeitgeist Films, and Chris offers his thoughts about the trailer.

 

 Yung Chang interview [3:33m]: Play Now | Download