(…) the movie uses its micro-narrative to offer a subtle macro-critique of the state of modern China—a place where effusive national pride can’t entirely counterbalance the harsh social and economic realities that prevent each of these fighters from fully realizing his potential.
Time Out New York Review (Critics’ Pick)
Canadian helmer Yung Chang delivers another artfully downbeat chronicle of mainland life with “China Heavyweight,” an intimate and affecting account of two aspiring boxers from the sticks training under the same hard-working coach.
Heavyweight is an essential social document on the hardships and lack of opportunity in the industrialized ‘New’ China.
In his sophomore film, Chang, once again, shows himself to be one of our great young cinéma-vérité directors, with “our†meaning, not just belonging to Canada, but to the world.
Christian Science Monitor Review
CBC Strombo TV Interview (Video)
Montreal Mirror Review & Interview
Le Voir Review (French)
Sing Tao Daily Interview (Chinese)
Guardian 20 Films to look out for
CBC Day 6 Radio Interview (Radio)
Bring Your Own Doc interview ( Video)