Synopsis

In 1957, 200 teachers, students, and cadres were labelled as “Rightists” for their criticisms of the Communist Party and exiled to southwest China, to the East Wind State Farm. As part of the Great Leap Forward they were forced to undertake deforestation, agricultural, and industrial projects that resulted in general famine. Later, during the Cultural Revolution, the camp was visited by a large group of urban “sent down” youth. Finally, over two decades later, the “Rightists” were rehabilitated in 1978 and allowed to return home. This documentary examines these tragic events through dozens of interviews with camp inmates and staff who worked at East Wind State Farm throughout its existence.