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Deep Dive: Always (2025)

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Always
Always is a feature-length documentary directed by Deming Chen, focusing on the life of Gong Youbin, an eight-year-old poet from rural Hunan, China. The film captures Gong's experiences living with his father and grandparents after his mother left when he was three months old. Through poetry, Gong and his classmates express their thoughts and feelings, providing insight into their inner worlds. The film's visuals reflect the tranquil landscapes of Hunan, emphasizing the simplicity of rural life while hinting at the complexities of growing up. The production spanned seven years, from 2018 to 2024, allowing the filmmakers to document Gong's transition from childhood to adolescence. The film premiered at CPH:DOX in March 2025, where it won the DOX:Award. It has since been recognized at various international film festivals, including Hot Docs and DocsBarcelona, receiving multiple awards for its artistic approach and emotional depth.

Why Watch

  • •See Gong Youbin's poetic expression in rural Hunan.
  • •Meet Deming Chen, an emerging voice in documentary filmmaking.
  • •Find out how a family navigates life in rural China.

Did You Know

•Gong Youbin was eight years old when filming began in 2018.
•The film premiered at CPH:DOX on March 15, 2025.
•Always won the top prize at CPH:DOX in 2025.
•The film was produced as a co-production between four countries: the US, France, China, and Taiwan.
•It received funding support from multiple organizations including IDA and CNC.

Perfect For

Rural Chinese lifePoetry enthusiastsDocumentary film fans