One Child Nation

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Shanez B “One Child Nation” is an extremely powerful documentary directed by Nanfu Wang and Jialing Zhang, screened in 2019. It focuses on the One Child Policy (1979-2015) and its effects after it ended. In the documentary, there are many interviews, including former village chiefs, artists, midwives, ex-human traffickers, state officials, researchers, journalists, and, most importantly, the victims of the policy themselves. This documentary really gives viewers a “360 of the policy,” which Nanfu even states was her goal during an interview. In the film, Nanfu also unsuccessfully attempts to locate her cousin, showing how deeply the policy tore families apart. One of the most surprising parts of the documentary is how the One Child Policy is still accepted by some people in China, along with a shared belief that there was no other choice. This documentary is eye-opening and illuminating—it could completely shift your perspective on the policy. At the same time, it can be hard to watch and even disgusting. No matter how much you know about the One Child Policy, this documentary brings something new. Through showing unique perspectives, Nanfu is able to tell the full story of the One Child Policy and lets the viewer make their own conclusion. I didn’t expect to see people in China still supporting the policy, and hearing everyday citizens explain why really made me think. The vivid stories are terrifying to hear. One of the most powerful was Shuang Jie Zeng’s. Her story is portrayed so well. Through old photos and the firsthand account from Shuang Jie and her family, viewers get to see how deeply their lives were affected. Shuang Jie’s twin was taken to an orphanage as a baby, and they’ve been separated ever since. Another disturbing moment that really captured the harsh reality of the policy was when Nanfu visited a local village in China and met with the village chief. She asked to speak to some older women who had lived through the policy. When she did, the women got mad and started yelling. That moment really showed the emotional weight and long-lasting impact the policy had on women. In conclusion, “One Child Nation” tells the story of the One Child Policy in a powerful and emotional way. By sharing personal stories and real-life reactions, this documentary reveals the full scope, abuses, and lasting consequences of the policy. Rated 4.5/5 Stars •  Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 04/22/25 Full Review Katy W achava que sabia tudo sobre essa lei e afinal tinha coisa pior por de trás Rated 4/5 Stars •  Rated 4 out of 5 stars 12/03/24 Full Review Mani G The documentary primarily deals with how One Child Policy affected people of China at that time. Two types of people are to be seen who thought that the policy is against morals and people of China and others who believe that it was important for the growth of the country. But one thing is sure, government had implemented it very strictly and people felt like they had no choice. I would have loved to see more stories of people who could meet their lost or abandoned children. This documentary is definitely worth the watch. Rated 3.5/5 Stars •  Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars 10/28/24 Full Review Bahad j In my opinion, the movie uses very good camera and audio visual equipment and the crew members and the filmmakers have played their roles very well. I really liked it. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 08/01/24 Full Review Geke g This is why documentaries keep developing in film industry. Always pulling fresh air in the business. Enjoy for everyone Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 07/28/24 Full Review Munkhchimeg T How sad is this truth? I wish everyone watch it and catch some unique new feeling Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 07/27/24 Full Review Read all reviews

One Child Nation

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