The 2025 Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Film Festival opened on July 2 in Chongqing, a megacity in the Chinese mainland's southwest, drawing over 50 films from SCO members for five days under the theme "Technology & Film · Charm of the SCO." This year's lineup includes forums on international cooperation, tech showcases, sustainable tourism initiatives, and nightly drone light shows, all designed to spark cross-border dialogue and creativity.
Marking the 130th anniversary of world cinema and the 120th of Chinese cinema, the festival spans genres and national narratives. From award-winning dramas to AI-driven documentaries, filmmakers employ emerging technologies to tackle topics from climate change to digital society, appealing to tech enthusiasts and social changemakers alike.
Interactive exhibitions bring VR storytelling, AI editing tools, and immersive soundscapes to the fore, while tourism pavilions introduce sustainable travel packages across SCO regions. Digital nomads and adventure seekers can sample virtual tours of mountain retreats, heritage sites, and urban landscapes beyond the usual tourist trail.
As night falls, choreographed drone light shows transform the Chongqing skyline into a canvas of light and motion, symbolizing the union of art and innovation. Each performance underscores the festival's mission: leveraging technology to bridge cultures and inspire young global audiences.
The closing ceremony on July 6 will unveil the Jinshancha (Golden Camellia) Awards, honoring excellence in categories from Best Feature to Emerging Talent. Positioned alongside the SCO Summit, the film festival reinforces its stature as a premier forum for storytelling, collaboration, and shared vision across borders.
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Shanghai Cooperation Organization Film Festival opens in Chongqing
cgtn.com
