On June 14, the 27th Shanghai Film Festival kicked off at the Shanghai Grand Theatre, drawing cinephiles from around the world. Backed by the China Film Administration and co-hosted by China Media Group and the Shanghai Municipal People's Government, the nine-day festival runs through June 22, showcasing over 400 domestic and international titles.
Commemorating the 130th anniversary of world cinema and the 120th anniversary of cinema on the Chinese mainland, the event offers everything from sweeping historical dramas to cutting-edge sci-fi and bold documentaries. Industry experts say the diverse lineup reflects the rapid evolution and global ambitions of Chinese cinema today.
Among the voices resonating across venues is Milla, a Kazakh film enthusiast studying at Tsinghua University. She first discovered Chinese films while preparing for the HSK exam and was struck by their emotional depth and social relevance. 'These movies go beyond entertainment,' she tells CGTN. 'They are artful narratives that spark reflection and connect audiences from different cultures.'
For Milla, titles like The Wandering Earth and Farewell My Concubine highlight the balance of stunning visuals, complex characters, and rich storytelling. She believes continued innovation will help Chinese cinema capture new international audiences and deepen cross-cultural exchange.
As the festival unfolds, young creators, thought leaders, and global film fans will be watching closely. With Chinese cinema celebrating landmark anniversaries, the spotlight is on the industry’s next chapter—and on fresh tales that resonate worldwide.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
