This is a documentary focusing on Melbourne’s burgeoning Chinese rap culture. Through the stories of rappers like Abel and Future, this documentary delves into how music can be a bridge between identities, blending the rhythms of Chinese rap with the diverse sounds of Melbourne. Candid interviews and engaging visuals show how, despite language issues, stereotypes and cultural differences, Melbourne’s Chinese rappers have always banded together in an attempt to create a community of their own. From their creative process to their reflections on identity and community, CN TYPE BEAT will give us an insight into the development of Chinese hip-hop within the multicultural context of Melbourne.
Yutong Li’s Reflection
In CN TYPE BEAT, I was responsible for shooting and sound design to bring Melbourne’s vibrant Chinese rap world to the masses. While shooting, I focused on experimenting with different frames and compositions, trying to figure out how to make the documentary look more professional and visually reflect the energy and identity of the rap culture we were exploring. In terms of sound design, I worked hard to blend the background music of Chinese rap with natural ambient sounds and dialogue, ensuring that the audio elevates the emotional impact of the entire story. For me, it was a valuable opportunity to gain practical experience in sound design and production, as well as to perfect my shooting technique, improve my skills in shooting and editing audio, and learn to hold my work to a higher standard. Capturing the artistry, energy, and growing community of Chinese rap in Melbourne has been a fascinating journey and I hope my passion and creativity in this project shine through in the final product.