The True Spirit

Description

Liu Li-Chen and Su Jing-Wen are two urban Indigenous youths pursuing their boxing careers while confronting significant challenges. Li-Chen, who won a national championship in junior high school, faces confusion as he moves through high school, dealing with pressures from boxing, academic expectations, and his Indigenous identity. His struggles lead to a decline in his performance, impacting his confidence. Su Jing-Wen, from the Nanjing Indigenous community in Sanxia, New Taipei City, is identified as a promising Olympic boxer but is uncertain about her future in the sport. Her dedication to training is fueled by the expectations placed upon her rather than a personal sense of belonging. The film also highlights the broader context of their experiences as urban Indigenous individuals. While both youths excel in boxing, they find themselves arguing over their cultural identities and the sense of belonging within their communities. The documentary presents a nuanced look at their lives and the pressures they face, ultimately questioning what it means to succeed in a world with competing demands.