The 12th Silk Road International Film Festival has transformed Fuzhou into a global stage for cinematic storytelling, spotlighting locations like Tailu Town – the atmospheric coastal setting of Wang Xiaoshuai's award-winning drama So Long, My Son. This tranquil fishing enclave, embraced by the sea on three sides, demonstrates how physical landscapes can become emotional characters in film narratives.
Visitors to the festival are exploring Tailu's winding alleys and weathered docks that featured prominently in the 2019 Berlinale Silver Bear winner, discovering how the town's natural beauty amplifies stories of human connection. Festival director Li Wei notes: "Fuzhou's unique blend of urban energy and coastal serenity makes it an ideal laboratory for filmmakers exploring China's social transformation."
The event has drawn 1,500+ film professionals from 48 countries and regions, with 430 entries competing across categories. Beyond screenings, the festival serves as a bridge for co-production deals between Asian and European filmmakers, particularly in emerging technologies like virtual production stages.
For cultural travelers, Fuzhou offers new film-themed itineraries combining Ming Dynasty architecture with contemporary art installations. The convergence of cinematic art and maritime heritage positions this Fujian province capital as both preservationist and innovator in Asia's creative economy.
