What does it mean to be a “modern woman”? And who gets to define it? How much has really changed? And what patterns repeat across generations? In this Watch & Talk, hosted by BO, an expert in movie and music history, we’ll explore two bold and controversial films: Shanghai Baby and New Women. Each, in its own time, pushed boundaries, sparked debate, and offered a powerful lens into the lives, struggles, and identities of women in a rapidly changing China.

Through carefully selected scenes and BO’s expert insights, we’ll unpack how these films portray independence, desire, societal pressure, and self-expression—and then bring the conversation into today. How do these depictions compare to modern women now? And how did these locally made films challenge not just Chinese society, but also Western assumptions and narratives about identity and freedom? Expect a discussion that’s culturally rich, thought-provoking, and surprisingly relevant—no prior knowledge needed, just curiosity and a willingness to see familiar questions in a deeper way.

Let's sit back with good friends in comfy chairs and watch scenes from films that reminded the world of China's capability for opening minds and soft power. And, of course, let's have a fascinating, fun and intelligent discussion about our mutual cinematic journey!

“现代女性”到底意味着什么？又是谁在定义它？这些年到底变了多少？又有哪些东西其实一直在重复？

在这场 Watch & Talk 中，BO 会带大家看两部挺有争议、也很有代表性的电影：《Shanghai Baby》和《New Women》。它们在各自的时代都引发过讨论，也提供了一种视角，让我们看到女性在快速变化中的中国，是如何面对身份、欲望、社会压力，还有自我表达的。

通过精选片段和 BO 的讲解，你会一起拆解这些电影是怎么呈现独立、选择、限制这些问题的，然后把话题带回到今天。现在的女性，和当时相比，有什么相似和不同？这些作品又是如何在挑战中国社会的同时，也在回应西方对“身份”和“自由”的一些想象？这会是一场文化层面很丰富、但也挺贴近现实的讨论。不需要提前了解背景，只要你愿意换个角度看这些熟悉的问题。

找个舒服的位置，和大家一起看电影片段，然后聊点有意思、有点深度的东西。