Film Lens
Fortune Teller is an independent documentary directed by Xu Tong, focusing on the lives of Li Baicheng, a disabled fortune teller, and his wife, Pearl Shi, who has multiple disabilities. The film portrays their daily activities, including fortune-telling for prostitutes and their interactions within their community in Hebei, China. Li Baicheng, born in 1965, faces challenges due to his chronic leg weakness, while Pearl Shi deals with hearing loss, aphasia, and intellectual disability. Their story reflects the struggles and realities of disabled individuals in China, often marginalized and with limited educational opportunities.
The documentary captures the couple's life in a candid manner, showing their travels and the unique aspects of their work. It also features Tang Xiaoyan, a prostitute who has faced significant hardships, including being raped at the age of 17. The film not only shows the couple's endurance but also addresses broader social issues related to poverty and disability in China, making it a moving reflection on their lives and the lives of others in similar circumstances.
Why Watch
- •Meet Li Baicheng, a disabled fortune teller in Hebei.
- •Follow Pearl Shi's daily life with multiple disabilities.
- •See Tang Xiaoyan's story of survival and transformation.
Did You Know
•Li Baicheng was born in 1965 in Qinglong Manchu Autonomous County.
•Pearl Shi has hearing loss, aphasia, and intellectual disability.
•The film won the 6th Annual China Independent Film Festival award in 2009.
•Tang Xiaoyan, a featured character, was raped at age 17.
Perfect For
Disability studiesChinese cultureIndependent cinema