Produced by Historia Yi Wang, directed by Qian Cheng, and photographed by Jikai Zheng, the documentary I Went to An Alien Planet takes viewers on a fascinating journey into one of China’s mysterious UFO contact cases. The film tells the remarkable story of Zhang Xiangqian, a farmer from Guohe Town in Lujiang County, Anhui, who claims to have been taken by extraterrestrial beings in 1985, spent a month on an alien planet, and returned with knowledge of advanced alien technologies.

Premiering on June 18, 2024, on popular streaming platforms such as Cathplay, Giloo, and Bilibili, and garnering over 1.7 million views, I Went to An Alien Planet explores Zhang’s life and his extraordinary claims, raising profound questions about science, belief, and the human quest for truth. With a careful balance of skepticism and curiosity, the documentary invites viewers to form their own opinions about Zhang’s experiences.

The Extraordinary Claims of Zhang Xiangqian

Zhang Xiangqian, born on August 26, 1967, in Guohe Town, Lujiang County, Anhui, asserts that as a child, he encountered extraterrestrial beings. However, the most significant event of his life occurred in 1985 when he claimed to have been abducted by aliens and taken to an alien planet. Zhang describes spending a month on the planet where extraterrestrials used “field scanning technology” to impart vast scientific and cultural knowledge. After returning to Earth, Zhang claims he spent decades translating this alien knowledge, including groundbreaking theories in physics and mathematics.

Zhang’s remarkable claim is that, based on the knowledge he received, he discovered the Unified Field Theory dynamics equation—an equation that he believes unites the four fundamental forces of nature. Despite lacking formal scientific education, Zhang dedicated himself to self-learning advanced physics and mathematics, attempting to share his findings with scientific institutions around the world. Since 1991, he has written numerous letters to scientific institutions, universities, and physicists, seeking recognition for his discoveries. Yet, his efforts have been met with silence, except for a few dismissive replies.

A Filmmaker’s Approach: Skepticism, Respect, and Objectivity

As the producer of I Went to An Alien Planet, Historia Yi Wang and director Qian Cheng approached Zhang’s story with a blend of skepticism and respect. “When we first met Zhang, we were struck by the contrast between his rural background and his profound understanding of advanced scientific theories,” recalls Historia Yi Wang. “He could discuss complex concepts in physics and mathematics as if they were second nature. It was both fascinating and perplexing.”

The filmmakers remained neutral and objective, presenting Zhang’s story without imposing judgments. “We wanted to capture Zhang’s narrative authentically, as he lives it,” explains Wang. “He is deeply committed to his belief, and even if one were to question the validity of his story, the sheer dedication to his work deserves recognition.”

A Story of Persistence Against All Odds

The documentary emphasizes Zhang’s determination in the face of rejection. For over 30 years, Zhang has tirelessly worked to communicate the alien knowledge he believes was imparted to him, despite being dismissed by the scientific community. His belief in his mission has remained unwavering, even as his letters went unanswered.

“Whether or not you believe in the truth of his experiences, Zhang’s persistence is truly remarkable,” says Historia Yi Wang. “He has spent much of his life translating alien knowledge into terms that the scientific world can understand. His commitment to his work is unparalleled.”

A Unique Documentary with International Acclaim

I Went to An Alien Planet has garnered significant attention at domestic and international film festivals. The documentary has been recognized for its compelling storytelling and the depth of exploring science, belief, and human perseverance. It has been officially selected for the following prestigious awards and festivals:

• Finalist at the China Academy Awards of Documentary Film (CAADF)
• Official Selection at the 21st Guangzhou International Documentary Film Festival (GZDOC)
• Winner of Best Documentary Feature Film at the Global Film Exhibition in the USA (Notification Date: December 10, 2023)
• Official Selection at the 1st Eutopia Arthouse Film Festival
• Official Selection at Lift-Off Filmmaker Sessions by Lift-Off Global Network 2024 (Notification Date: February 29, 2024)

This recognition underscores the film’s ability to provoke thoughtful discussion and resonate with audiences worldwide.

Filming in Anhui: A Deep Connection to Zhang’s Story

Filming in Zhang’s hometown of Guohe Town, Lujiang County, Anhui, allowed the filmmakers to connect with Zhang’s environment and the setting that shaped his extraordinary journey. The documentary takes audiences inside Zhang’s humble home, where he continues his work, surrounded by the records of his lifetime quest to share alien knowledge with the world.

“Filming in Anhui was crucial to understanding Zhang’s life and his mission,” says Historia Yi Wang. “It’s in this rural town that Zhang’s journey began, and his determination remains rooted in his origins. His journey is more than space—it’s about the human desire to know more and uncover greater truths.”

Historia Yi Wang: A Producer with Vision

Historia Yi Wang, a prominent filmmaker, has a deep passion for stories that challenge the status quo and ignite intellectual curiosity. Her work on I Went to An Alien Planet reflects her commitment to exploring bold and thought-provoking narratives. As the producer, Historia Yi Wang ensured the documentary maintained a balance of skepticism and respect, providing a platform for viewers to engage with Zhang’s story without imposing a singular interpretation.

“Every story deserves to be told, but how it’s understood is up to the audience,” says Historia Yi Wang. “For me, filmmaking is a way of embracing life with an open attitude. This documentary isn’t about convincing anyone to believe in Zhang’s experience but about offering a moment for viewers to step away from their own lives and reflect on the bigger questions of existence. If this film can help someone temporarily detach from their daily struggles and look at the world differently, it achieves something meaningful.”

Qian Cheng: The Visionary Director and Editor

As the director and editor of I Went to An Alien Planet, Qian Cheng played a pivotal role in shaping the film’s narrative and structure. Qian’s editing crafted a seamless and engaging documentary that skillfully intertwines Zhang’s journey with broader philosophical and scientific themes.

“Qian’s dual role as director and editor allowed for a very cohesive storytelling approach,” says Historia Yi Wang. “His ability to shape the documentary’s tone and rhythm has been essential in presenting this complex story in a way that resonates with audiences.”

Jikai Zheng: The Cinematic Vision Behind the Camera

The documentary’s stunning visuals, captured by cinematographer Jikai Zheng, are critical in bringing Zhang’s story to life. With a keen eye for detail and an ability to capture both the grandeur and intimacy of Zhang’s journey, Zheng’s cinematography underscores the film’s emotional depth and intellectual complexity.

“Jikai’s work was instrumental in conveying the atmosphere of Zhang’s rural life and the larger-than-life nature of his claims,” says Historia Yi Wang. “Through Jikai’s lens, we were able to present Zhang’s story in a way that is visually engaging and emotionally resonant.”

A Global Conversation

I Went to An Alien Planet raises profound questions about belief, science, and human understanding. The documentary invites audiences to reflect on the nature of truth, knowledge, and the pursuit of ideas that challenge our perception of reality.

In a world where the lines between science fiction and reality are often blurred, Zhang Xiangqian’s story reminds us of the potential for discovery in the most unexpected places. Whether or not one accepts Zhang’s claims as truth, his story is a testament to the human spirit and the relentless pursuit of answers to life’s greatest mysteries.

With its intellectual depth and personal commitment, I Went to An Alien Planet offers a captivating look into the mind of a man who believes he has touched the stars—and the knowledge he believes they’ve shared with him.

Disclaimer: The claims presented in I Went to An Alien Planet are based on the personal experiences and beliefs of Zhang Xiangqian. The content of this documentary reflects his perspective and does not claim to be scientifically verified or supported by the broader scientific community. Viewers are encouraged to approach the subject with skepticism and to form their own opinions about the events depicted.

Published by Elle G.