The 19th China Changchun Film Festival opened with great fanfare on Wednesday in Changchun, northeast China’s Jilin Province. Embracing the theme “New Era, New Cradle, New Power,” the festival shines a spotlight on the burgeoning talent and dynamic developments in Chinese cinema.
Fifteen exceptional films have been shortlisted for the coveted Golden Deer Award, which honors the best film of the festival. Among the contenders are notable titles such as “Pegasus 2,” “Endless Journey,” “Only the River Flows,” “Viva La Vida,” “Article 20,” and “A Place Called Silence.” These films represent a diverse array of stories and perspectives, highlighting the richness of contemporary Chinese filmmaking.
The Golden Deer Award jury is composed of a distinguished panel of seven members, led by esteemed director Li Shaohong. Joining her are screenwriter Ran Ping, cinematographer and director Bao Dexi, actors Yan Bingyan and Cheng Taishen, art director Cao Jiuping, and music producer Yu Fei. Their collective expertise spans the cinematic spectrum, promising a fair and insightful evaluation of the competing films.
Beyond the awards, the festival offers a vibrant program of outdoor and indoor public screenings, forums, summits, and symphony concerts. These events aim to foster cultural exchange and promote emerging talent within the film industry, providing valuable platforms for networking and collaboration.
Since its inception in 1992, the China Changchun Film Festival has held significant cultural importance as Changchun is revered as the birthplace of Chinese cinema. Reflecting the dynamic growth of the industry, the festival transitioned from a biennial to an annual event in 2021. This year’s celebrations will continue until September 1, inviting audiences and industry professionals alike to partake in a week of cinematic excellence.
