Three years after the first season gained popularity online, the second season of Qinghai: Our National Park — a documentary series showcasing the natural wonders of Northwest China — has taken an innovative approach by incorporating more human-interest stories, as revealed by director Li Xiao during a recent seminar in Beijing.
Comprising three episodes, the documentary turns the lens to the national parks of Qinghai Lake, Kunlun Mountains, and Qilian Mountains, highlighting their distinctive ecological environments and geographical landscapes.
"In the past, traditional documentary cinematography for national parks typically captured wildlife and nature scenes, but rarely delved into incorporating locals or individuals connected to the parks," reflected Li on his initial concepts.
Driven by the progressive mindset, the documentary intertwines nature with a variety of stories from people of diverse backgrounds, including a painter, an astrophysics scientist, a herder-turned-writer, and a young skier.
Yan Wei, deputy head of the editorial office of the China TV Arts Committee, commented that the documentary also skillfully showcases the harmonious relationship between nature and humanity, making it an engaging piece that resonates with modern audiences.
The second season was broadcast on CCTV-9, the documentary channel of China Central Television, in mid-August.