500 Miles Away From Home
Jiuying, a talented printmaker grappling with the complexities of bipolar disorder and the weight of financial struggles, embarks on a poignant journey back to her hometown as the vibrant Lunar New Year approaches. This time of year, rich with tradition and familial connections, serves as a backdrop for Jiuying to confront and reconcile with the deep-seated emotional wounds she has carried, particularly those tied to her relationship with her mother, Hengpei. Hengpei, a woman who finds joy and empowerment in her passion for bodybuilding, is determined to support Jiuying in her own way by encouraging her to engage in physical activity as a means of healing. However, the years of mistreatment and control that Jiuying experienced at the hands of her mother have left her feeling hesitant and reluctant to embrace new ventures or to trust in her mother's intentions. During a heartfelt dinner, the atmosphere becomes charged with unspoken tension, and Jiuying, overwhelmed by her emotions, finally finds the courage to voice the inner turmoil that has been festering for far too long.
With tears streaming down her face, she articulates the pain and confusion that stem from Hengpei's past actions, revealing how these experiences have shaped her identity and her struggles with mental health. This moment of vulnerability becomes a turning point for both women, as they begin to peel back the layers of their shared history, laying bare the misunderstandings and emotional scars that have kept them apart. Ultimately, in a beautiful act of reconciliation, they leave behind their sorrows and venture into the serene countryside where Hengpei was born. Here, amidst the natural beauty and tranquility, they find solace in each other's presence. As they dance together, a symbolic gesture of unity and healing, the barriers that once divided them begin to dissolve. Through shared movement and open conversation, Jiuying and Hengpei embark on a journey of mutual healing, discovering the power of connection and forgiveness in the face of their past struggles.
Qianhui Xu (She/Her/Hers) is a skilled director and cinematographer whose work is deeply rooted in the exploration of political, cultural, and social themes. With six years of extensive experience in international and multicultural film and television production, she has honed her craft to create meaningful media art that resonates with diverse audiences. Her dedication to storytelling is evident in her projects, which often highlight underrepresented voices and narratives.
In her role as a camera operator, Qianhui contributed to a powerful documentary series that captures the poignant stories of veterans from various conflicts, including World War II, the Vietnam War, the Korean War, and the Gulf War. These interviews, which are available for viewing on the American Veterans Center's YouTube channel, have garnered significant attention, with some videos amassing over 550,000 views. This impactful series is also set to be released as a web documentary on Netflix, further expanding its reach and influence. Additionally, her human interest documentaries and commercials have gained visibility on the official websites and YouTube channels of various organizations in the DMV area, showcasing her ability to connect with local communities through compelling visuals and narratives.
Qianhui's creative endeavors extend beyond traditional formats; her music video "Closet Blues" was selected for the "Existence as Protest" exhibition at Rhizome DC. This exhibition is dedicated to amplifying the diverse perspectives of local trans, queer, and gender-expansive artists in Washington, D.C., and serves as a testament to Qianhui's commitment to inclusivity and representation in the arts.
Her experimental documentary short "Dongting Village" has received acclaim at numerous international film festivals, further establishing her reputation as a visionary storyteller capable of transcending cultural boundaries through her work.
As a passionate documentarian, Qianhui aspires to share stories that resonate with audiences on a personal level. By bringing Jiuying's journey to light, she hopes to shed light on the solitary yet courageous paths taken by young women, especially those facing financial hardships and mental health challenges. Qianhui believes that through this narrative, viewers around the globe will find a sense of comfort and empowerment, recognizing the strength that lies within vulnerability and the importance of support in overcoming life's obstacles.