Taiwan is without a doubt a mesmerizing place, but it is not a perfect paradise. Its scenery is not defined by temples hidden behind waterfalls, nor by monks praying against the backdrop of a rising sun. I did not want to make a video that feeds into these occidental clichés of what characterizes an East Asian country, I just wanted to show Taiwan as it is. After the publication of "Taiwan Face-To-Face", for example, I often got criticized for my choice of music for this video. Many western viewers consider the soundtrack to be too technical, soulless or even commercial and, hence, argue that it does not fit the images shown. None of the Taiwanese viewers, however, have found fault with the music. It was an active decision of mine to not use a romantic, traditionally Chinese melody, with the goal that viewers of the video are forced to leave their romanticized ideas – at least partially – behind.
All in all, it was a beautiful journey that means so much to me. I want to thank all the people who helped me along the way and made this video possible. I hope that "Taiwan Face-To-Face" inspires some people to travel to Taiwan and experience it through their own eyes.
"Taiwan Face-To-Face" was featured on the Facebook Page of National Geographic Travel
"Taiwan Face-To-Face" was featured in an article on Matador Network