China
An aging prostitute confronts herself as a woman living in a patriarchal world.
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Janelle FaimanDirector
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Janelle FaimanWriter
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Janelle FaimanProducer
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Karen KipkeyKey Cast"China"
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Project Type:Music Video, Short
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Runtime:3 minutes 22 seconds
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Production Budget:150 USD
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Country of Origin:United States
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Country of Filming:United States
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Language:English
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Film Color:Color
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First-time Filmmaker:No
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Student Project:No
Janelle Faiman started directing, filming, and producing her own music videos from the necessity of being an independent artist. In 2021, Janelle won the audience choice award in the national music video category from Indie Memphis Film Festival for her music video, Fire. New to the film world, she is currently in post production with her first feature length documentary and planning to start pre production on a second.
Janelle Faiman is also a talented singer-songwriter who moved to Nashville, TN, after dreaming about becoming a performer while growing up on a farm in rural Minnesota. Born with a natural gift for writing songs, she began crafting her own original music at just 16 years old. Since then, she has honed her craft, developing a unique sound that blends elements of country, blues, and rock.
Janelle’s music has taken her across the United States and Europe, where she has toured and shared stages with some of the most respected names in the industry. Her live performances are powerful and emotive, showcasing her powerful voice and thoughtful songwriting. She has worked with some of the industry’s most talented professionals, including multi Grammy award winning producer, Greg Magers.
In addition to her work as a musician, Janelle is also a passionate advocate for social justice and equality. Her music often touches on important issues and themes for underrepresented communities across the US and the world.
'China' is based on the true story of a woman sex worker in Elko, Nevada. I had a chance meeting with 'China', inspiring the song, which is a nearly verbatim retelling of China's story.
China is an exploration of the often overlooked lives of aging sex workers. The song unveils a narrative often hidden from view. Through evocative melodies and cinematic videography, the story of 'China' unfolds as she confronts what it means to be an aging woman in today's society, through her own reflection.
The video shows us an intimate look, bringing awareness to one woman's struggle, a stand in for many. Aging as a woman in today's society has implications for a much larger audience than just that of sex workers.
My hope in creating this video is to help erase stigma, promote empathy, and acknowledge the diverse stories that contribute to the whole of the human experience.
A heartfelt thank you to the woman who shared her story, contributing to the essence of this project. This video is dedicated to honoring her legacy with respect and understanding.