Ascension

The notion of the ”Chinese dream” – the revitalisation of the nation – has become inextricably linked with China’s supreme leader, Xi Jinping. Jessica Kingdon’s Ascension examines this dream through three lenses: the working class on the factory floor, the middle class consuming and the decadence of the oligarchy.

Drawing on the tradition of experimental documentaries like Koyaanisqatsi, Kingdon eschews traditional talking heads and narration for an intimate, impressionistic insight into China. Rather than offering up a didactic interpretation of the country and its contradictions, Ascension allows you to draw your own conclusions about the rise and rise of the People’s Republic.