视频链接：https://www.bilibili.com/video/BV1gyen6YEJK?vd_source=7b5a952eaa34b18947836d43e44587b6
创作人：黄钰昕、刘相臣
This documentary follows Lin Luhong, a 27-year-old professional wailer—someone who mourns the deceased in traditional Fujian funerals. Raised in a traditional rural family in Zhangzhou, Fujian, he developed a deep passion and talent for Xiangju, the region’s local opera, from an early age. In Zhangzhou, ritual wailing is performed using Xiangju. Naturally, Lin’s love for this art form paved the way for his entry into the wailing profession. At 15, under the guidance of his great-aunt—a seasoned wailer—he began learning the art of ritual wailing.
In his early college years, Lin tried balancing his studies in music education with his work as a wailer. However, he soon realized that due to societal expectations for the teaching profession, there was an irreconcilable conflict between being a mourner and a music teacher. Unlike most young people who choose to stay in the city after graduation, even though urban life offered him another possibility, his sense of belonging still drew him back to his hometown.
In his first year after returning, Lin faced the loss of his beloved grandmother. Her passing deepened his sense of duty toward the deceased and their families, reinforcing his commitment to ensuring every farewell was dignified.
As one of the youngest and few male wailers in his village, Lin built a strong reputation. He runs a one-stop funeral business, and the high quality of his services ensures a steady stream of business. He remains unfazed by the social stigma surrounding the funeral industry—beliefs like “working with the dead makes marriage difficult.” To him, financial stability solves all problems. With this mindset, he rarely takes breaks. Beyond wailing, he performs in puppet shows and takes part in traditional processions during the Chinese New Year.
Through Lin’s story, this film offers a portrait of a Gen Z youth who defies expectations. In his work, he is meticulous and mature beyond his years, yet in private, he displays a childlike humor and candidness. In an era brimming with opportunities and choices, Lin found his life’s calling in his early twenties—and has pursued it with unwavering dedication. His sense of purpose and self-assurance enabled him to carve out a distinctive path for himself.
Keywords:
Wailer, Rural China, Hokkien funeral customs, Rural youth, Cultural heritage, Performative grief, Xiang Opera, Puppet Show, Mourner