Three experts on two classics — and how early 20th century film helped drive a national dialogue. To celebrate the opening of the new, expanded China Institute, this program will explore the beginnings of Chinese cinema as the country faced social and political turmoil and war. Weaving elements from Hollywood, Soviet cinema, and traditional art, Chinese filmmakers sought to be part of the intense dialogue about the future of their nation. Three top Chinese film experts kick off our summer-long series with a wide-ranging discussion of two great films, The Great Road, 大路 (1935, Mandarin, with English subtitles) and Laborer’s Love, 劳工之爱情, (1922, silent film. Written Mandarin and English inter titles). Virtual lecture about the film today. A link to view each film online is also available for viewing at home.