People’s Republic of Desire(HKAFF 2018)

Grand Jury Winner, Documentary Feature Competition, SXSW Film Festival

In China, live streaming is a big online trend and a booming entertainment industry in its own right. Webcast presenters peddle talents, looks, interactions and carefully cultivated personalities to dedicated followers who send virtual gifts that translate into real money and rags-to-riches stories for top earners. Tech exec-turned-filmmaker Wu Hao explores this fascinating online culture formed by streamers, media platforms, agencies and fans. The documentary profiles two successful streamers in particular – 21-year-old singer Shen Man and 24-year-old funnyman Big Li – and reveals their personal, professional and financial pressures.