The Chinese Mayor
Reviewed by Tiffany Ran
In the last 1600 years, the city of Datong has degenerated from ancient cultural capital to one of China’s most polluted cities. “The Chinese Mayor” follows controversial mayor Geng Yanbo as he strives to revitalize Datong and lessen the city’s economic reliance on coal. In the process, Geng is praised by some and villainized by others, and he is being watched closely by citizens and other officials. The film documents Geng’s efforts and viewers are given a firsthand look into this mayor’s struggles and the tightrope one walks to enact great change under the shadow of the Communist Party. The film peers beyond Geng as the main protagonist and gives a candid, eye opening look at one China’s many underrated cities.
Showtimes: 5/30 1:30 p.m. Pacific Place, 5/31 3:30 p.m. Lincoln Square, 6/7 12:00 p.m. SIFF Cinema Uptown
Meet the Patels
Reviewed by Tiffany Ran
Ravi Patel embarks on a hilarious, real life experience of trying to find a wife through his parents close network Indian family and friends. The experience takes the entire family to India and back, from one coast of the United States to another. Ravi’s journey also shed light on the quirky world of Indian matchmaking, described and detailed by Ravi’s parents and the many aunties and uncles in arranged marriages. “Patels” is woven together intimately and humorously through a series of animated interviews, home videos, and cringe-worthy date experiences. If you meet the Patels through “Patels”, you will love the Patels. (end)
Showtimes: 5/29 7:00 p.m. Pacific Place
5/30 3:30 p.m. Lincoln Square