THE MONKEY KID International Cinema

Based on the director’s childhood experiences, this is a lyrical, rhythmic chronicle of the daily
life of a child of intellectuals during China’s Cultural Revolution. When her parents are sent to
the countryside for “re-education,” (in truth brainwashing) a nine year old girl remains in Beijing
on her own. With a freedom unnaturally formed by the times, she gathers with friends whenever
she wants, shows up late for school, tumbles down mountains of gravel and balances on balconies
five stories high. Far from becoming a victim, she survives a fractured existence by clinging to
happiness, and escapes from the dull embrace of the Cultural Revolution.