From July 3 to 7, the 2025 Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Film Festival was held in Chongqing in the Chinese mainland, bringing together filmmakers and cinephiles from SCO members.
Amid screenings of historical epics and modern dramas, acclaimed actress Zhang Ziyi sat down with CGTN to explore a key theme: the rising international impact of Chinese films.
\"Our stories are resonating with global audiences,\" Zhang said, pointing to growing demand for authentic narratives that blend tradition and innovation. She highlighted how co-productions, streaming platforms and festival circuits have become vital gateways for Chinese cinema to connect with viewers worldwide.
For young filmmakers in the Chinese mainland and beyond, this momentum signals new opportunities to experiment, collaborate and push creative boundaries. Zhang noted that as the industry embraces digital tools and cross-border partnerships, Chinese voices are gaining fresh visibility on the world stage.
Looking ahead, she urged industry peers to keep experimenting and to focus on universal themes that transcend borders. \"Cinema has the power to bridge cultures,\" Zhang added, \"and that's where our greatest stories lie.\"
Reference(s):
Zhang Ziyi talks about Chinese films abroad during SCO Film Festival
cgtn.com
