Before the Flood

China is currently constructing the largest dam ever built on earth, known as the Three Gorges dam. The process of water-reserving began in 2003, with completion expected in 2009. Unfortunately, this means that many towns and counties, as well as countless natural and historic landmarks in the area of Three Gorges, will be submerged under the water level of the reservoir, including Fengjie. This town is famous for being the subject of a poem by Li Bai, one of the most significant poets in Chinese history. In 2002, just before the first water-reserving, a film was created that documents the relocation of Fengjie. This film is an authentic record of the town’s inhabitants, including an old man who lost his livelihood as a result of the dam’s construction. Additionally, the priests of a local Christian church struggled to keep their faith while negotiating for the breakdown of their church. Many poignant life stories unfolded in this town during this difficult time, marked by struggles and tears.