The recently screened documentary "DEAR KULIANG" at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles isn't just another film; it represents a profound exploration of cultural ties between China and the United States. On November 7, 2025, producer Zhang Yuehan shared insights during the event, part of a larger celebration known as the 21st Chinese American Film Festival, which kicked off the previous day. This documentary first shone on U.S. screens during this prestigious festival, attracting a diverse audience that included university educators, students, and various community representatives.
This engaging 50-minute film, a collaborative effort between filmmakers from China and the U.S., dives deep into the rich cultural heritage of Kuliang, located in Fujian Province, China. Kuliang has long been a nexus of friendship and connection, bridging American expatriates and local Chinese communities. The documentary charts the journey of Holly, an American high school student who embarks on a quest to uncover her family heritage in China. Through her insights, the film weaves together narratives from both historical and contemporary lenses, rejuvenating the century-old story of Kuliang.
Creating this documentary was no small feat; it took nearly two years to capture the essence of this tale, with filming at various locations throughout both China and the U.S. Producer Zhang Yuehan remarked that the film encapsulates Holly's heartfelt journey back to her roots, bringing to light significant historical episodes and humanity's innate warmth that has fostered enduring connections between the two nations over generations.
Loyola Marymount University junior, Victoria Popescu, expressed her enthusiasm about the film's impact on her perspective regarding cross-cultural engagement. She shared, "The documentary was incredibly insightful. Witnessing an American girl venture to China in search of her family’s legacy beautifully illustrated the deep-seated connections threading our cultures together." She further emphasized the importance of these interactions, stating, "The richer our encounters and dialogues with individuals from diverse backgrounds, the more we evolve as a community."
In a similar vein, Eric Johnston, an American middle school teacher and an enthusiast of Kuliang culture, noted that the film highlights long-standing bonds between the communities of both countries. "These ties extend back over a century," he pointed out, highlighting his own experiences of guiding American students to Fuzhou, the capital of Fujian Province, as a way to engage with these shared histories in a meaningful manner.
James Su, chairman of EDI Media Inc. and an organizer of both the Chinese American Film Festival and the Chinese American Television Festival, expressed his hope that the documentary would enhance understanding and promote friendship among the people of the two nations.
The festivals, which have been a staple in Los Angeles since their inception in 2005, celebrate this vital cultural exchange every November. In a special recognition, the Los Angeles County Office has designated the month as "Chinese American Film Festival and Chinese American Television Festival Month." Furthermore, the events feature several panels where industry professionals from China and the U.S. convene to share their insights and explore new avenues for collaboration.
As the screening wrapped up, encouraging discussions emerged among viewers, highlighting not only the shared history but also raising questions about future interactions and partnerships between cultures. While many find these exchanges enriching, is there a risk that they can overlook the complexities of each culture’s uniqueness? What do you think? Join the conversation in the comments!
