One of the films at the FirstGlance film festival is writer, director and colorist Alexis Van Hurkman’s Carry My Heart to the Yellow River
The film centers on the relationship between two young women. Taking her hospitalized friend’s place on a bike tour to China’s famed Yellow River, a high school graduate reluctantly travels to faraway Gannan, racing the clock to share pictures of the journey as her friend’s condition worsens.
Alexis Van Hurkman is best known for his work as a colorist and author of the industry-acclaimed “Color Correction Handbook,” which has taught color grading to a new generation of post professionals. This is his third film to feature in festivals. Alexis’ gritty desert survival feature “Four Weeks, Four Hours” screened at festivals around the world in 2006 and his award-winning science-fiction short “The Place Where You Live” played 18 festivals in 2015. He is currently working on his next short, “Checksum,” and in development on a scripted episodic comedy.
Van Hurkman, who has worked on and off in China for several years, states:
‘ I’ve developed a deep appreciation for China’s rich history, culture, and varied environments. I was thrilled when producer Wang Zunzheng approached me to direct writer Kenjin Xiong’s touching story of a high school graduate struggling through a trip she’s ill-equipped to take, all to fulfill her sick friend’s goal of seeing the Yellow River, a stunning landscape and enduring symbol of China’s identity. The most important thing for me was to give international audiences a glimpse at everyday life in today’s China through the eyes of the next generation. In the process, I’m honored to present a touching story of struggle, loss, and perseverance that I think will resonate with audiences in every country.’
We wish Alexis and the crew continued success with the film.
For further information please visit Alexis’ website, and FirstGlance Festival official website.
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