New Works by Jia Zhang-ke presented by YBCA June 5, 2008

When:
Useless – June 5 at 7:00 pm; June 8 at 2:00 pm
Dong – June 5 at 8:30 pm; June 8 at 3:30 pm

What:
NEW WORKS BY JIA ZHANG-KE

Jia Zhang-ke is perhaps China’s most important contemporary filmmaker, and the leading figure of what is known as the "Sixth Generation." We present his two newest films, both local premieres.

USELESS

In his haunting and compassionate new film, Jia examines the spiritual life of the Chinese clothing industry—the largest exporter of garments in the world. First an assembly line in Canton, where under the thunderous noise of sewing machines women work silently. Next we meet acclaimed Chinese designer Ma Ke, launching her handmade anti-fashion clothing line in Paris. Finally we spend a dusty afternoon in Fenyang in a tiny tailor’s shop. (2007, 82 min, digital video)
DONG

A companion piece to his recent film Still Life, in Dong (“east” in Mandarin) Jia beautifully explores the possibilities of documenting life and art. Against the stunning backdrop of the Three Gorges, the film follows one of China’s leading painters, Liu Xiao-dong, as he paints two portraits: one of laborers at the Three Gorges dam and one of young female models in Bangkok. As with much of his other work, Jia examines fantasy, landscape and the underlying realities of ordinary people caught in a whirlwind of rapid change. (2006, 66 min, digital video)

Who:
Films by Jia Zhang-Ke

Where:
YBCA Screening Room, 701 Mission St., San Francisco, CA 94103

Public Info:
$8 regular; $6 students, seniors, teachers & YBCA Members
415-978-2787 or www.ybca.org

Official Website: http://www.ybca.org