Crying in a theater

By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third, by experience, which is the bitterest. – Confucius

Cindy Shui Yu

This week’s movie was Up the Yangtze, a documentary that Sky and I tried to catch during SIFF. We were too far back in the rush line and missed the show, but we did speak with the director (who was going up and down the line, talking to moviegoers and handing out postcards) who told us that the movie would be opening in July. So we hopped on the scooter and went to the Varsity last night to watch it.

First off, let me state for the record that I am not a crier. I’ve remained stoic and dry eyed through many films that have left my companions all weepy. That said, I cried quite a bit during this movie. Not just during the movie, but afterward, in the bathroom. It hit some veins – poverty, sacrifice, family, helplessness – that are sensitive.

This shouldn’t keep you from the movie – in fact, I hope it makes you go see it. Or rent it. Or check it out. I’ve read a bit about the Three Gorges Dam, and I’ve seen other documentaries on the subject, but this documentary was a visceral and emotional look at a situation that is far too easy to intellectualize. On top of it all, the movie is spectacularly filmed and edited – it’s beautiful to watch.

In the spirit of the Confucius – here is my knowledge gathered in the last week or so. Nothing too earth shattering, but it’s an interesting excercise to classify things this way.

Reflection – Man am I lucky. I have the normal aches and pains of human-ness, but overall I’m very blessed and have a good, good life.

Imitation – When dealing with someone who is upset, a honest “I understand” goes a long, long way.

Experience – Allergies are not to be messed with. I learned this watching a friend have to swing a large needle into his thigh and be taken into the emergency room after eating something made in a factory with nuts.