'When You Are Old' Illuminates the Reality of Aging

The acclaimed Chinese documentary series "When You Are Old" recently screened two episodes at New York University, sparking reflection and lively discussion among viewers about aging and life.

Chiefly directed by Fan Shiguang, the seven-episode series focuses its lens on the elderly through long-term filming. It captures the love and hardship they encounter, offering an authentic portrait of their lives and emotions – and, in turn, revealing a distinctive facet of the city of Shanghai.

Using the power of images, it also overturns stereotypes of old age as simply lonely, tragic, or frail, instead revealing a broad emotional spectrum.

Director Fan noted that China, and Shanghai in particular, is entering a phase of population aging.

"Whether in the East or the West, the challenges posed by aging are shared," Fan said. "We hope more international audiences can see how Chinese seniors navigate and understand their later years."

In the eyes of Professor Marcia Rock from New York University, the commonality that they have with Chinese people is the pain of loss and the joy of love.

"Many American mothers (widows) were devoted to family and husband," Rock said. "The challenge for many widows in America is to find life in a community because life is not over."

The second season of the documentary is now in its final stages of production, and plans for a feature-length film are also under way.