Joshua: Teenager vs. Superpower (documentary film) at York University
Schedule
Sun May 24 2026 at 03:00 pm to 05:00 pm
UTC-04:00Location
Price Family Cinema (Accolade Building East), York University | Toronto, ON
About this Event
Sunday May 24, 2026 at Price Family Cinema (in Accolade East Building on Ian MacDonald Blvd.) of York University, North York
Synopsis:
The documentary follows the activism of Joshua Wong, a young political leader from Hong Kong, as he rises to prominence while leading youth protests against the Chinese government. The film is set against the backdrop of the 2014 Umbrella Movement, where Joshua and thousands of Hong Kong citizens fought to preserve the city's democratic freedoms. The film chronicles Joshua's journey from his early involvement as a teenager in Scholarism, a student activist group that successfully opposed Beijing's attempt to impose a pro-Chinese "national education" curriculum in Hong Kong schools, to his leadership role in the broader fight for universal suffrage.
Joshua's activism becomes a symbol of resistance against China's increasing control over Hong Kong. As China reneges on its promise of political autonomy, Joshua mobilizes his peers and leads massive peaceful protests to demand free elections. The documentary highlights not only Joshua's leadership but also the political tensions in Hong Kong as it grapples with the pressures from mainland China. The film portrays Joshua as a resilient figure, embodying the aspirations of a generation fighting for democracy against overwhelming odds, and sheds light on the power of youth-led movements and the complexities of Hong Kong's political landscape.
Documentary:
- Running time: 79 minutes
- Year released: 2017
- Language: English
- Subtitles: Chinese
Cast:
The cast features:
- Joshua Wong
- Agnes Chow
- Nathan Law
- Alex Chow
- Benny Tai
Awards and nominations:
- World Cinema Audience Award in the 'Documentary' category at the 2017 Sundance Film Festival
- Producers Guild of America Award (nominated)
Event Sponsor:
- York Centre for Asian Research, York University
Event Organizer:
- Toronto Association for Democracy in China (TADC)
Please join us after the film for TADC's laying of flowers and flower wreath to the Goddess of Democracy at York University (just 5 minutes walk from the Accolade East Building).
Press Notes:
- Joshua Press Notes
https://vimeo.com/950414949
Where is it happening?
Price Family Cinema (Accolade Building East), York University, Ian Macdonald Boulevard, Toronto, CanadaEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
CAD 0.00


















