1. Masterclass at Beijing Film Academy
Theme: Ethics, Aesthetics, and the Limits of Documentary Image
Date: March 24, 2026
Location: Beijing Film Academy, Room C619
Time: 18:00–21:00
The first masterclass took place in an outstanding academic setting, bringing together students from the International School and the Production Department of Beijing Film Academy, one of the most important film institutions in Asia. The event was organized by Professor Xiang Wang, Director of Youth Film Studios, and by Andreea-Ema Stoian, PhD in Film Studies at the same institution, who provided Chinese interpretation and moderated the discussion.
The program included a full screening of the film Planeta Petrila, followed by an extensive Q&A session with the director. The central theme focused on the ethics, aesthetics, and limits of documentary filmmaking, offering participants an in-depth understanding of the creative process—from concept development and research to filming and editing.
In his presentation, Andrei Dăscălescu offered a structured reflection on contemporary Romanian documentary cinema, addressing key aspects such as subject selection, narrative construction, the role of editing, and the relationship between reality and representation. He also emphasized the material and conceptual dimensions of documentary practice, highlighting the ethical responsibility toward the filmed subject.
A particularly significant moment was the presentation of his personal artistic journey, from his initial training as a sound engineer to his development as a documentary filmmaker. His early work, inspired by family narratives, provided students with insight into artistic motivation and professional evolution. Regarding Planeta Petrila, the director detailed the four-year documentation process and the choice of protagonist, inspired by his encounter with artist Ion Barbu and the transformation of a local community.
The masterclass was marked by a dynamic and engaging dialogue, with students showing strong interest in both technical and conceptual aspects of documentary filmmaking. The event contributed to strengthening Romanian–Chinese academic connections and highlighted the importance of documentary cinema as a tool for cultural and social reflection.
In conclusion, the director presented excerpts from a project currently in development, offering participants a rare glimpse into an ongoing creative process. The event ended in an atmosphere of appreciation and openness, confirming its strong educational impact.
2. Masterclass at Minzu University of China
Theme: Great Romanian Directors: A Retrospective of Andrei Dăscălescu
Date: March 25, 2026
Location: Minzu University of China, Fengtai Campus, Multimedia Hall
The second masterclass took place at Minzu University of China, within the Department of Visual Anthropology, bringing together students and faculty members from fields such as film, audiovisual communication, and anthropology. The event was moderated by Professor Kong Yuqin, in the presence of Professor Zhu Jingjiang and Andreea-Ema Stoian, representative of the Romanian Cultural Institute in Beijing.
The masterclass was structured as a retrospective presentation of the director’s work, including three of his most significant films: Constantin and Elena, Planeta Petrila, and Holy Father. In his presentation, the director addressed essential topics such as subject selection, long-term project development, the creative process, and the role of film education in shaping new generations of filmmakers.
A particular focus was placed on the genesis of Planeta Petrila, recounting the discovery of artist Ion Barbu’s universe and the transformation of an abandoned mining town into a space of cultural resistance. This narrative resonated strongly with the Chinese audience, perceived as a blend of absurdity and human sensitivity.
During the academic dialogue, Professor Zhu Jingjiang offered an insightful perspective from visual anthropology, highlighting historical connections between Romania and China, including references to Romanian mining equipment used in Shanxi Province. He also emphasized differences in cultural perception between East and West, recognizing Dăscălescu’s work as an important reference point for ethnographic documentary and intercultural visual expression.
The interactive session was particularly dynamic, with students raising questions about the limits of documentary representation, subject selection, and narrative structure in post-production. The director’s responses, characterized by clarity and openness, provided valuable guidance, encouraging students to explore their immediate reality and develop authentic perspectives.
The event concluded with a symbolic exchange of gifts, reinforcing the cultural and diplomatic dimension of the meeting. Participants appreciated the balance between theoretical rigor and the human depth of the director’s discourse, while the contributions of faculty members provided important academic orientation.
Through the complexity of the themes addressed and the high level of academic dialogue, the two masterclasses highlighted the role of documentary cinema as a tool for knowledge, reflection, and cultural connection. Andrei Dăscălescu’s interventions provided not only theoretical and practical insights, but also a deeper understanding of the artist’s responsibility in contemporary society.
These events strengthened academic relations between Romania and China and reaffirmed the importance of cultural exchange in shaping new generations of creators capable of building bridges between different realities through the language of film.
