Italian
Capturing the essence of Jia Zhangke’s ‘Caught by the Tides’
Jia Zhangke, a notable figure in the realm of Chinese independent cinema, has skillfully utilized the COVID-era lockdowns to delve deep into his expansive archive of footage. Over 20 years of filmmaking culminate in his latest creation, “Caught by the Tides”, which made its grand debut at Cannes and is set to grace the Busan International Film Festival this week.
Mixing past and present: A cinematic journey
“Caught by the Tides” showcases an innovative blend of archival material and newly shot footage. The film features Jia’s wife and muse, Zhao Tao, who navigates through significant moments in Chinese history. This cinematic exploration spans from China’s admission into the World Trade Organization to the triumph of hosting the 2008 Summer Olympics, bringing viewers to a near-present landscape.
Jia’s unique storytelling approach
Jia’s method draws parallels to pulp fiction writing, characterized by a non-linear narrative. Zhao Tao mentioned at a Busan event that the character ‘Qiao Qiao’ is a recurring figure in Jia’s work, albeit portrayed differently each time. The film “Caught by the Tides” distinctly leverages contemporary music, eschewing linear progression to offer creative freedom.
“We are an animal of forgetfulness,” Jia mused, emphasizing the fragmented nature of memory. This perspective is palpable in the film’s structure, filled with seemingly unrelated yet evocative fragments. Such an approach enriches the narrative, inviting audiences to perceive the evolving landscape of Chinese society through a medley of sensory memories.
Looking forward: Future projects in the pipeline
Jia Zhangke’s cinematic vision seamlessly bridges the past with the future. His upcoming endeavors might include a dual exploration of Chinese history and cutting-edge technology, specifically artificial intelligence. His enthusiasm for contemporary China ensures a continued focus on present-day narratives, while his interest in AI promises fresh thematic avenues. Notably, “Caught by the Tides” incorporates AI in scenes where Qiao Qiao interacts with a robot, hinting at Jia’s evolving narrative techniques.
A reflective and critical gaze
Jia’s filmmaking lens is both empathetic and critical. Reflecting on societal changes since 2000, he observes a shift in social dynamics—where women once sang together, today’s interactions are largely digital. This nostalgic yet critical view surfaces in a poignant scene where women in an acapella group celebrate Women’s Day, a moment captured spontaneously with live sound recording.
When questioned about the softening of his perspective, Jia acknowledged a change in his outlook over time. He noted, “I’ve looked back at my own footage and other people’s films, and I can see that my perspective has changed. In China today, there are more and more rules.”
Zhao Tao’s perspective on Jia’s influence
Zhao Tao eloquently highlighted Jia’s profound influence on her understanding of human connectivity. Initially, she focused only on her immediate family, but through Jia’s fascination with diverse backgrounds, she broadened her empathy. She cherishes “Caught by the Tides” as a precious gift, having portrayed the lives of Chinese women across different decades.
Final thoughts
“Caught by the Tides” is not merely a film but Jia Zhangke’s introspective journey through two decades of Chinese transformation. By merging historical context with fictional storytelling, Jia crafts a rich tapestry that invites reflection on societal progress and personal memories. His willingness to explore both past and future promises captivating new projects, making him a perpetual innovator in the world of cinema.
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