Sampan Family 1949
Sampan Family (1949) is a short documentary that offers a poignant look into the daily life of a sampan fisherman and his loved ones along China's Min River in Fukien Province.
Director: William James
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sampan Family (1949) about?
This documentary follows a sampan fisherman and his family as they navigate life along the Min River in Fukien Province, showcasing their daily routines and relationship with the water.
Who directed Sampan Family?
The film was directed by William James, whose work focuses on anthropological and regional storytelling.
Who stars in Sampan Family?
Basil Beyea is featured in the cast, contributing to the film's intimate portrayal of the family's life.
Is Sampan Family (1949) worth watching?
As an unrated documentary, its value lies in its historical and cultural perspective, offering a brief but authentic look at traditional Chinese rural life and family dynamics.
How long is Sampan Family?
The runtime is 16 minutes.
About Sampan Family (1949) — A Documentary on Rural Life in China
Sampan Family (1949) is a short documentary that offers a poignant look into the daily life of a sampan fisherman and his loved ones along China's Min River in Fukien Province. Directed by William James, this 16-minute film captures the rhythms of rural existence, highlighting the interplay between human labor and the natural environment. Through intimate storytelling, it explores themes of family bonds, traditional livelihoods, and the quiet dignity of those who work the waterways.
The film's atmosphere is marked by its observational style, allowing viewers to connect with the subject's world without intrusive narration. While details about its production remain sparse, the inclusion of Basil Beyea in the cast hints at a personal or anthropological approach to documenting this slice of Chinese life. Its concise runtime makes it a brief but meaningful window into mid-20th-century regional culture.