In June, the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival welcomed filmmakers and cinephiles to one of the Chinese mainland’s most dynamic cultural gatherings. During the Belt and Road Film Week, three Dutch films—headlined by the captivating fantasy-drama Fabula—made their debut on the Shanghai big screen.
Hosted by See NL, the Dutch film promotion organization, the screenings invited viewers to experience storytelling that bridges waterways and continents. Nathalie Mierop, chair of See NL, noted the energy in each screening room: “We’re seeing curious, engaged audiences eager to explore new voices. Dutch cinema has a unique blend of imagination and real-world grit, and Shanghai viewers embraced it wholeheartedly.”
Producer Sander Verdonk, whose film Fabula weaves folklore into modern-day adventure, shared insights on cross-cultural collaboration: “Partnering with Chinese mainland teams has taught us to rethink our creative process. There’s a real opportunity to blend Dutch innovation with local talent for stories that resonate globally.”
Beyond the screenings, workshops and networking events offered a platform for young filmmakers, tech entrepreneurs, and cultural influencers to discuss the future of Sino-Dutch partnerships. From co-production strategies to immersive VR experiences, conversations ranged from the financial mechanics of international funding to the grassroots potential of digital platforms.
As the lights dimmed on the last screening, the sense of possibility was clear: Dutch films in Shanghai are not just a one-off showcase but a springboard for deeper artistic exchange. For young global citizens, business visionaries, and changemakers alike, this chapter in film collaboration promises fresh narratives and shared growth.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
