People's Republic of Desire
In a digital universe where live streamers earn as much as $200,000 a month, can virtual relationships replace real human connections? The film focuses on two Chinese streaming stars who've risen from isolation to fame and fortune. Their online showrooms have become virtual gathering places for their millions of fans—from the super-rich, who lavish them with digital gifts, to poor migrant workers who worship them. Brought together in a series of bizarre, online idol competitions, they discover that happiness may be just as elusive in the digital world as it is in the real one.
Technology executive-turned-filmmaker Hao Wu takes a raw and human approach to storytelling in an era when culture evolves online. Wu previously held management roles at Alibaba, TripAdvisor and Excite@Home. His award-winning films have received support from JustFilms/Ford Foundation, ITVS, Sundance, Tribeca and international broadcasters.