A Complex Landscape of Fun, Queerness and Desire in China: Introducing Three Films by He Xiaopei

This article documents He Xiaopei’s work as a film activist who contributes significantly to feminist and queer movements in contemporary China. Trained social scientist, Xiaopei then went on become the director of civil organization Pink Space Research Center mid-2000s well an independent filmmaker. Since 2010, she has produced more than ten documentary movies. However, despite greatness her contribution, range topics covered, position movement China, yet receive attention deserves English-speaking academia. selects three movies by Xiaopei, i.e., The Lucky One, Playmates, Bad Women provides intersectional analysis gender, friendship, migration, sexuality intimate relationships, seen through lens ever-changing China global stage. At first glance, focus different figures themes, but they share same core spirit – breaking boundaries limits, maintaining humour positivity even when facing predicaments, embracing desire depicting humanity it manifests complicated modern life.