Film lovers from five countries shared heartfelt reflections on the power of storytelling at the 15th Beijing International Film Festival (BJIFF), highlighting cinema’s universal ability to connect cultures. When asked “What’s your favorite movie?” responses ranged from Roberto Benigni’s WWII drama Life is Beautiful to the animated Chinese blockbuster Ne Zha 2, revealing a tapestry of emotions and memories.
“Films are our common language,” noted a South Korean filmmaker during the event, emphasizing how narratives like Bong Joon-ho’s Parasite resonate globally despite cultural differences. Media professionals from France and India echoed this sentiment, citing classics such as Amélie and Lagaan as personal touchstones that bridge societal divides.
The festival’s lineup, featuring over 200 films from 53 countries and regions, reinforced this theme of unity. A panel discussion titled “Stories Without Borders” spotlighted Asia’s growing influence in global cinema, with speakers praising collaborative projects like China-ROK co-productions as models for cross-cultural creativity.
As attendees swapped recommendations late into the night, the message was clear: whether through laughter, tears, or shared silences, the silver screen remains one of humanity’s most enduring connectors.
