Once Upon a Time in Shanghai

This documentary invites viewers into the lives of the inhabitants of Shanghai, a slum overshadowed by the wealth of modern Baku. As director Leyli Gafarova documents their daily struggles, she provides an intimate look at a community grappling with the realities of its existence.

Through a playful and candid lens, the film captures the fears and hopes of the residents as they navigate life in a vulnerable neighborhood. Gafarova’s approach, blending documentary with behind-the-scenes insights from a feature film production, enriches the narrative and adds depth to the portrayal of this marginalized area.

Once Upon a Time in Shanghai stands out for its focus on the human experience within a rapidly changing urban landscape. It serves as a poignant reminder of the disparities that exist within cities and the stories that often remain untold.