Cinematic footage, Chongqing 1930s. A low-angle tilt-up shot starting from the wet cobblestones of the Chaotianmen wharf. Hundreds of shirtless porters (Bangbang) carrying heavy wooden crates up the endless, steep stone stairs. In the background, massive steamships float on the Yangtze River. The city is a vertical maze of wooden stilt houses (Diaojiaolou) clinging to the cliff. Thick fog wraps around the architecture. Sepia vintage tone, high contrast, heavy film grain, historical documentary style.