Finding Yingying

Finding Yingying is a 2020 documentary that gracefully enters the world of true crime, providing a close and personal perspective on an international tragedy. First-time feature director Jiayan "Jenny" Shi unravels a complex narrative that centers on the life and disappearance of Yingying Zhang, a vivacious young Chinese scholar studying in the United States.

Set in the backdrop of Illinois, the documentary introduces us to Yingying Zhang - a prolific academic and an ambitious young woman from China who gets an opportunity to study at the University of Illinois in the U.S in 2017. However, after arriving in America, Yingying goes missing, and it becomes a global news story that attracts attention from both her homeland and her host country.

As the film progresses, it delves into Yingying's personal life by showcasing her diary entries that she began keeping before her arrival in the USA. Through these intimate notes, we are given a glimpse into Yingying's hopes, fears, and dreams, and the cultural disconnect she faces as a foreigner in a new land. These diary entries deeply humanize Yingying, helping us understand her plight and the pain that her loved ones go through in her absence.

This heart-wrenching tale is woven by Jenny Shi, who herself shares a connection with the protagonist being a Chinese woman studying in America. Shi combines her personal perspective with her investigative journalism prowess, creating a fictional blend that goes beyond the "whodunit" aspect and the procedural investigation of Yingying's disappearance. Instead, she channels her energy on the emotional consequences that this incident had on Yingying's loved ones, shifting the focus from the crime itself to its aftermath.

In Finding Yingying, Shi portrays the emotional journey of Yingying's family - her parents and her boyfriend - after her disappearance, giving the audience a chance to empathize deeply with their situation. The heroism and dogged determination of Yingying’s boyfriend Xiaolin Hou, who is also the documentary's producer, and his dedication for justice shed light on romantic love fighting against all odds.

The film also authentically explores the cultural differences that can lead to the misunderstanding and mishandling of international cases such as Yingying's. It bringing to the fore the dire need for police forces and communities to better understand foreign cultures and to adjust their investigative styles accordingly.

Shi strikes a delicate balance in Finding Yingying, exploring a multitude of themes – ranging from cultural chasm, the struggle of living in a foreign land, and the global issue of violence against women. Simultaneously, it celebrates Yingying's legacy, her infectious optimism, and her unending pursuit of fulfilling her dreams.

The intensity of the film is alleviated with a sensitive flair by – paired with moments of shared laughter, tender reminiscing, and raw introspect – thus preventing Finding Yingying from slipping into despair. One of the documentary's most striking qualities is its ability to integrate moments of levity without undermining the somber essence of the narrative.

Finding Yingying is visually enthralling as well. The picturesque beauty captured on camera, coupled with smaller, intimate moments of personal narratives, creates a compelling cinematic experience. The meticulous editing and the film's potent storytelling echo the director's dedication to revealing the depth and complexity of Yingying's story.

Moreover, the soul-stirring soundtrack adds an extra dimension to the film providing a range of emotions that blend seamlessly with the rest of the storytelling, adding to the overall allure of the documentary.

Overall, Finding Yingying is a poignant tale of loss and hope that resonates deeply with the viewer. It serves as a heartfelt tribute to Yingying, remembers her as a tremendous spirit, and exhibits the stark reality faced by international students. It is undoubtedly a sobering and emotionally charged experience that presents a narrative intertwined with sadness, strength, and human resilience.