PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF DESIRE

In a digital universe where live streamers earn as much as $200K a month, can virtual relationships replace real-life human connection? PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF DESIRE tells the stories of two such online stars who've risen from isolation to fame and fortune in China. The film takesus on a vérité journey through their live streaming showrooms, which have become virtual gathering places for hundreds of millions -from the super rich who lavish performers with digital gifts, to poor migrant workers who worship them. The characters are brought together ina series of bizarre online idol competitions,where they discover that happiness in their virtual world may be as elusive as in the real one.

HAO WU

 

Technology executive-turned-filmmaker Hao Wu takes a raw and human approach to story-telling in an era when culture evolves online. Wu previously held management roles atAlibaba, TripAdvisor and Excite@Home. He is nowa fellow at Washington D.C.-based think tank, New America. His documentary films have received support from Ford Foundation JustFilms, ITVS, Sundance, Tribeca and international broadcasters.

• SXSW

• Seattle International Film Festival
• Zurich Film Festival

DOKer 2019 — LET IT DOK! COMPETITION PROGRAM