Beijing is set to dazzle the world as the 15th Beijing International Film Festival (BJIFF) opens on April 18 at the Yanqi Lake International Convention & Exhibition Center. Film professionals and cinema lovers from around the globe will gather to celebrate a vibrant showcase of international cinema.
This year holds special significance as the world marks the 130th anniversary of cinema and the 120th anniversary of Chinese cinema. Against this historic backdrop, the BJIFF continues to shine a spotlight on international exchange and cinematic excellence.
At the heart of the festival is the Tiantan Award, the official competition recognizing outstanding recent films and promoting diversity in global cinema. Fifteen full-length films are shortlisted, competing in ten categories including Best Feature Film, Best Director, Best Leading Actor, Best Leading Actress, and Best Cinematography. A prestigious jury of seven members will select the winners, to be announced at the festival’s closing ceremony.
Leading this year’s Tiantan Award International Jury Committee is renowned Chinese director and actor Jiang Wen. Joining him are Chinese American director and actress Joan Chen, British director David Yates, Chinese actress Ni Ni, Finnish director Teemu Nikki, Swiss director and actor Vincent Perez, and Hong Kong art director Tim Yip.
Running from April 18 to 26, the 15th BJIFF will present over 300 films across 33 cinemas and one immersive venue in Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei. The “Beijing Screening” section offers approximately 900 screenings, showcasing global masterpieces, restored classics, and the works of emerging Chinese filmmakers.
