May 18 marks International Museum Day, and this year CGTN reporter Liu Mohan invites us on a cinematic journey at the China National Film Museum. Housed on the outskirts of Beijing, the museum showcases the art, technology and culture behind Chinese cinema’s rise from silent celluloid to today’s digital masterpieces.
Step into immersive galleries where interactive displays bring film history to life. Over 50,000 artifacts—including original cameras, vintage posters and restored film reels—chart milestones from the first shadow plays to landmark blockbusters. A state-of-the-art restoration lab offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how experts preserve fading celluloid using AI-powered tools.
Data highlights the rapid digital transformation: digital screenings now make up 85% of domestic releases, and online platforms stream over 500 million hours of Chinese films each month. Last year, the museum welcomed 1.2 million visitors, with youth attendance rising 25%, reflecting a global shift toward interactive learning.
Beyond tech, the museum celebrates the stories that shaped generations: from pioneering directors like Zhang Yimou to grassroots indie projects that captured social change. Interactive stations encourage dialogue, asking visitors to vote on their favorite era of Chinese cinema and share personal memories.
For global film buffs, tech enthusiasts and young travelers alike, this cinematic odyssey offers a fresh perspective on how storytelling evolves with innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned cinephile or curious newcomer, the China National Film Museum on International Museum Day is a must-visit destination to see where celluloid meets the future.
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Watch: A cinematic journey from celluloid to the digital age
cgtn.com
