China Heavyweight
Director: Yung Chang
In southwestern China, state athletic coaches scour the countryside to recruit poor, rural teenagers who demonstrate a natural ability to throw a good punch. Moved into boxing training centers, these boys and girls undergo a rigorous regimen that grooms them to be Chinas next Olympic heroes but also prepares them for life outside the ring. As these young boxers develop, the allure of turning professional for personal gain and glory competes with the main philosophy behind their training to represent their country. Interconnected with their story is that of their charismatic coach, Qi Moxiang, who now in his late thirties and determined to win back lost honor trains for a significant fight.
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Slant Magazine
Kalvin Henely
Kalvin Henely
The Stranger
Charles Mudede
Charles Mudede
Village Voice
Michael Atkinson
Michael Atkinson
IONCINEMA.com
Jordan M. Smith
Jordan M. Smith
