Story perspectives

Documentary 'Whispers in May' Explores Adolescence and Tradition

3/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

Dongnan Chen (the Chinese director) presents Whispers in May, a hybrid documentary following 14-year-old Qihuo and friends on a road trip to buy a skirt for a Nuosu rite.
The film explores adolescence, tradition, and parental absence due to migration.
Chen emphasizes beauty in storytelling and aims to portray marginalized communities with dignity.
The documentary will premiere at the Copenhagen International Documentary Film Festival on March 15, 2026, after support from various film funds.

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Story summary

Dongnan Chen (the Chinese director) presents Whispers in May, a hybrid documentary following 14-year-old Qihuo and friends on a road trip to buy a skirt for a Nuosu rite.
The film explores adolescence, tradition, and parental absence due to migration.
Chen emphasizes beauty in storytelling and aims to portray marginalized communities with dignity.
The documentary will premiere at the Copenhagen International Documentary Film Festival on March 15, 2026, after support from various film funds.