On the night of Wednesday, December 3, 2025, Sanya's Yalong Bay lit up for the opening of the 7th Hainan Island International Film Festival (HIIFF). Under the banner "Ocean-born Visions, Boundless Light and Shadow," filmmakers, actors and audiences gathered to celebrate cinema against a backdrop of wave-inspired stage design.
Highlights of the evening included dynamic song and dance performances that paid homage to Hainan's rich cultural heritage, weaving tropical rhythms with modern choreography.
The festival also unveiled the members of the jury for the Golden Coconut Award, giving attendees a first look at the panel that will select this year’s standout films. Appearances by film and production crews further highlighted the behind-the-scenes talent driving these cinematic visions.
Attendees should note that special customs operations at the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) are scheduled to take effect on December 18, 2025—just two weeks after the opening. These measures promise to streamline equipment imports and travel logistics, reinforcing Hainan's role as an emerging hub for film production and creative exchange.
With its blend of cultural performances, jury unveilings and wave-inspired visuals, HIIFF's opening night set the tone for a festival celebrating boundless horizons of cinema.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
