Nongnu

If FENG BAO was Leyda’s first outstanding cinema experience in Peking, his final one was NONGNU, which he saw shortly before leaving China. Based on the life story of a young boy, the film gives an account of the servitude of the Tibetan farmers, their rebellion and their liberation by the Red Army. The film’s propaganda purpose is given greater nuance by the role of the Buddhist authorities, which include both subservient people as well as those on the side of the exploited. Leyda’s enthusiasm for the film was primarily based on the use of non-professional actors, which gives many of the scenes a documentary quality. Fabian Tietke gives an introduction to both Chinese films.  

Film print: British Film Institute (BFI).