There is an amazing story that lies locked inside the country of China. This story needs to be told and I wanted to be the one to do it. After doing some initial research it didn’t take long to realize there would be one potential problem. A big one. The Chinese government.
I met yesterday with the board of directors of this particular charity that is involved with this amazing story and was told, “Love the idea. Don’t recommend doing it.” Already the Chinese gov is watching this situation and even requested that some lines be removed from the blog of the party in question. If I were to be “caught” filming this amazing story, this charity organization could be put in jeopardy, even though the film wouldn’t portray China in a negative way. (In fact the story isn’t even about China)
I simply cannot risk harming this story and the people involved so I have closed the book on this project. I’m ok with it. I don’t do well with authority figures so a part of me is relieved to reach this decision.
How much I appreciate living in a country where I can make films about whatever I want! But what makes me angry and sad is wondering… how many other amazing stories out there will forever be untold due to politics?