Legend states that in China there was once a beautiful land called Li Chang, where lovers never married, instead changing partners whenever they chose. But when a cruel Chinese emperor forbade these relationships and instituted arranged marriages, countless lovers committed suicide.

This fascinating documentary filmed in Mosuo Province near the Tibetan border shares the story of a matriarchal society that echoes the legendary Li Chang. There are no fathers, husbands, or marriages in Mosuo society. Instead, uncles care for their sisters’ children, taking on the role of the father. Brothers and sisters live together in their mothers’ homes for the duration of their lives and women perform all of the work, including physical labor and wage-earning. These women are typically courted by men who travel long distances for conjugal visits.

This colorful film illustrates a new change sweeping across Mosuo Province. Since the introduction of the first CD player and TV set in the 1990s, a revolution has arisen. Women now shop, attend dances and parties, and go to school. But what will be the ultimate impact of these changes on the cultural traditions of the Mosuo?

"This fascinating program is recommended for all libraries."
‒Library Journal

"Happily not content to leave the viewer in the ethnographic past, these issues of contemporary culture and cultural change are examined intelligently, even as the viewer can see that the 21st century is certainly not the first time such people have come under pressure from outside societies."
‒Anthropology Review Database