Watch Scenic Walks of the World: Historic Pathways/The Great Wall of China
- 2008
- 49 min
Scenic Walks of the World: Historic Pathways/The Great Wall of China is a breathtaking journey through one of the greatest man-made wonders of the world. The documentary movie takes viewers on a visual and historical tour of the Great Wall of China, revealing the awe-inspiring beauty and cultural significance of this ancient monument.
The movie starts with an overview of China's history and its long-standing fascination with walls to protect its borders. We then get a glimpse of how the Great Wall was built over the centuries, and the engineering marvels and the human sacrifices that went into creating this massive structure. The movie focuses on the Ming Dynasty's contributions to the wall, which is largely what we see today, and the political and military reasons behind this monumental undertaking.
Scenic Walks of the World: Historic Pathways/The Great Wall of China is not just a documentary about the Great Wall. It is a masterful exploration of history, culture, and geography that blends seamlessly with an immersive and meditative experience of walking alongside the wall. The movie features stunning aerial shots of the wall's panorama, capturing the changing landscape along different sections of the wall.
Each section of the wall has its unique personality and challenges, and the movie does an excellent job of showcasing them. We see the rugged terrain of the Shanhaiguan Pass, the steep and dizzying steps of the Jinshanling section, the breathtaking vistas of the Mutianyu segment, and the restored splendor of the Badaling section. The movie also covers some of the lesser-known paths that offer a more intimate connection with the wall, such as the Huanghuacheng section, which has a beautiful lake and watchtowers surrounded by lush vegetation.
Scenic Walks of the World: Historic Pathways/The Great Wall of China is not just a visual delight but also a cultural and historical deep dive. The movie presents us with fascinating tidbits of information about the wall's symbolism, its role in Chinese culture and folklore, and its place in world history. We learn about the wall's strategic significance, its impact on China's foreign relations, and its representation in literature, art, and cinema.
The movie also does a great job of introducing us to the people who live near the wall and who keep its traditions alive. We see villagers engaged in activities such as harvesting chestnuts, making clay figurines, and practicing tai chi, and they share their stories and insights about the wall's importance in their lives.
In addition to the stunning visuals and informative commentary, Scenic Walks of the World: Historic Pathways/The Great Wall of China is also a meditative and calming experience. The movie features calming music, natural sounds, and the rhythmic sound of footsteps that transport us to a serene state of mind. This aspect of the film is especially relevant in our fast-paced and stressful modern lives, making it a welcome respite.
Overall, Scenic Walks of the World: Historic Pathways/The Great Wall of China is a must-see movie that offers a rare combination of breathtaking visuals, historical insights, cultural richness, and meditative elements. It educates, entertains, and inspires us to appreciate the wonders of the world and the hard work and ingenuity of those who came before us. It reminds us that there is more to a place than its physical beauty and that a walk along a historic path can be a journey of the body, mind, and soul.