China / Canada, 2016, 80min, experimental documentary, Colour, Mono

Synopsis:

Filmed in China’s Loess Plateau, where shadow plays have entertained people and deities for centuries, Of Shadows follows a lively and resilient group of shadow play performers as they navigate between the rural staging of ancient plays and the urban spectacle of cultural heritage preservation. While providing a rare glimpse into the nomadic lives of master puppeteers, the film paints a haunting portrait of a revered folk tradition transforming against the backdrop of a country in constant transition.