Self-funded documentary by former celebrity and CCTV presenter Chai Jing hopes to answer the basic questions about China smog. (Photo : www.womenofchina.cn)
Inspired by her sick daughter, former TV celebrity, journalist and presenter Chai Jing released a documentary depicting the China smog.
Marking her return to CCTV following the birth of her child, Chai's self-funded one-year project "Under the Dome" adds a sentimental touch worthy of public interest as the former celebrity is not only an independent observer but a concerned mother as well.
Early last year, Chai took leave as a state broadcaster and presenter in order for her to be able to focus her attention on her daughter who was then born with a tumor. The new-born infant underwent surgery.
While showing her documentary movie, Chai said that she saw smog through her daughter's eyes. She recalled how her baby was perpetually confined indoors, banging the windows in frustration for not being allowed to play and explore outside.
Chai as a mother was and still is heartbroken. Her daughter's condition was what inspired and eventually pushed her to create the documentary.
Even before her childbirth, Chai has been known for her rigorous stance on environmental issues, criticizing malignant pollution in areas such as her coal-mining hometown, the northern province of Shanxi. The public perceives her as a strict environmental advocate.
Chai hopes that the 103-minute documentary will answer the basic questions about smog, what it is, where did it come from, and what the Chinese people can do about it.
"It's also the answer that I've been preparing for my daughter," Chai said.
Chai became popular with her investigative journalism during the SARS outbreak and Wenchuan earthquake. Chai also used to report on mining accidents.
