Trapped in the City of a Thousand Mountains

Synopsis: Short documentary. A new phenomenon has taken the internet by storm: Chinese rap. But behind its skyrocketing popularity, there is a struggle for freedom of speech. Rappers try to figure out what they can and cannot say after more censorship is announced. In Chongqing, one of China’s biggest cities, surveillance is unavoidable. Announcements echo across the vast squares warning that "morally suspect individuals" are banned from speaking in public. It’s not exactly the most stimulating environment for young people looking for something more than collectivist slogans. They express their artistic resistance against the lack of freedom in their tattoos and underground hip-hop. The rappers feel trapped in the immense city.[20 minutes]
Language: English
Country: Great Britain
Year of production: 2019
Subjects: Social Studies; Music
Keywords: censorship; China; young people; Rap music; Hip Hop

URI: https://www.theguardian.com/world/ng-interactive/2019/jun/14/trapped-in-the-city-of-a-thousand-mountains-video
Delivery: Streamed

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