UNDERGROUND | Inside Beijing's Techno Youth
At the pulse of Beijing lies a stirring underground scene, where a new wave of creators dares to challenge norms and push existing boundaries.
"UNDERGROUND | 地下" examines the subversive world of Beijing's electronic music scene, focusing on the DJs and creators of FLOW扑通, a label that stands as a beacon of creativity amidst China's capital. With up-close personal interviews and unseen on-the-spot footage, the documentary features the stories of DJs Wu Jiu and Liu Yang, co-founders of FLOW扑通, who refuse to conform to society's expectations of living solely for work or adhering to norms and pressures. Through using art as a platform for self-expression, they resist expected conformity, all while navigating the restrictive environment of China's capital.
Through their stories, we witness the evolution of Beijing's nightlife, from intimate gatherings in small-sized venues to the energetic pulse of abandoned warehouse raves. However, recent challenges, such as stringent regulations, threaten the very existence of these spaces.
"UNDERGROUND | 地下" not only captures the beats and rhythms of Beijing's techno scene but also includes a glimpse into the past featuring rare footage of a Great Wall rave from 2004. This view of past and present highlights the constant dance between innovation and restriction that defines this underground movement.
As Beijing's youth redefine the boundaries of art and expression, "UNDERGROUND | 地下" offers a captivating and immersive look into their world. It disrupts preconceptions about China's youth, showcasing their resilience, creativity, and unwavering determination to carve out their own space.