The red carpet at the 15th Beijing International Film Festival (BJIFF) came alive with fresh energy this week as Finnish director Teemu Nikki stepped into the spotlight. Known for his bold storytelling, Nikki shared how Chinese cinema fuels his creative spark.
“Chinese cinema often gives me new ideas and a different experience – I love it,” Nikki told CGTN’s Zhang Meng during the opening ceremony. As one of the international jury members for this year’s Tiantan Awards, he’s eager to dive into the lineup, which features a diverse mix of films from across the globe.
The festival, now in its 15th edition, brings together filmmakers, actors, and industry professionals from dozens of countries. For Nikki, the real thrill lies in collaboration. “I’m looking forward to exploring future co-productions with filmmakers from the Chinese mainland,” he said, hinting at cross-border projects that blend Nordic creativity with vibrant local stories.
His excitement reflects a broader trend: global directors are increasingly turning to Chinese cinema for fresh perspectives and new narrative techniques. With its booming box office and rapidly evolving market, the Chinese mainland offers fertile ground for innovation and partnership.
As the Tiantan jury convenes, all eyes are on the awards ceremony, where international voices will celebrate standout films and forge connections for tomorrow’s co-productions. For Teemu Nikki and his peers, BJIFF 2025 is more than a festival—it’s a jumping-off point for the next wave of global cinema.
Reference(s):
BJIFF 2025: Chinese cinema inspires new ideas, says Finnish director
cgtn.com
