As the world witnessed in the last year, China’s patience has worn thin, and Hong Kong’s freedom began to erode quickly. Massive protests began when China threatened to pass a law allowing the government to extradite Hong Kong citizens to the mainland. It was viewed as an attempt to remove pro-Democracy leaders and imprison them indefinitely. A protest was born known as the Umbrella Movement, as protestors used umbrellas to fight off tear gas.
As the protests grew, Denise Ho became arguably the most prominent voice speaking on behalf of the protesters. She was on the front lines with Hong Kong’s citizens, even getting arrested with them. Giving voice to freedom led to her being banned in China from selling her music, appearing on television and film, and touring. Overnight she lost 80% of her income. In fear of government retaliation, she would lose most of her corporate sponsors, who depended on lucrative Chinese business.
“In masterfully telling Ho’s life story, director Williams pieces the puzzle known as documentary filmmaking into an enthralling whole.“
To me, Denise Ho: Becoming the Song is the portrait of a modern hero. At one moment, she’s the biggest pop star in China, and she willingly gave it all up for a cause greater than herself. Early in life, she got her practice in standing up for LGBT rights in China’s hostile environment. Now she fights for freedom. I’m writing this review the day before the United States celebrates Independence Day, and the irony should not be lost on anyone.
In masterfully telling Ho’s life story, director Williams pieces the puzzle known as documentary filmmaking into an enthralling whole. She injects every moment showing off Ho’s passion with that same energy. And Williams is able to capture the suspense and drama of the protest on the streets of Hong Kong with real urgency.
I should also bring up that Williams’s film and Denise’s story is coming out at a time as the protests over George Floyd’s murder is still fresh in our minds. The protesting in Hong Kong last year may have been sparked for different reasons, but is very similar, and just as real. I can’t recommend Denise Ho: Becoming the Song any higher. It a film of hope for us little people as Denise is the David to a very big Goliath. Plus, the music is pretty good, too.
"…the portrait of a modern hero."
Denise Ho puts Taylor Swift, Disney, and nearly all of Hollywood to shame. Almost no celebrities, except Richard Gere, speak out against China. Hollywood censors itself to keep market share. If there’s ever a time we need to #StandwithHongKong…it’s now or never!