Lights, camera, celebration! The Beijing International Film Festival (BJIFF) is paying tribute to cinematic history by commemorating 120 years of China’s first film, “Dingjunshan”, alongside the 130th anniversary of the world’s first film, “Arrival of a Train at La Ciotat”.
“Dingjunshan”, released in 1905, marked the birth of Chinese cinema, capturing a Peking opera performance and pioneering a new art form in the nation. Fast forward to today, China has evolved into the world’s second-largest movie market, showcasing its growth from black-and-white classics to cutting-edge blockbusters like the tech-driven “Ne Zha 2”.
The festival not only honors the roots of filmmaking but also shines a spotlight on the future. Young filmmakers and audiences are invited to explore the journey of cinema, from its humble beginnings to the innovations that are shaping stories today.
“This is a pivotal moment to appreciate our cinematic heritage and look forward to new horizons,” a BJIFF spokesperson shared. “We aim to inspire the next generation of storytellers in China and beyond.”
As the curtains rise on this grand celebration, the BJIFF beckons movie enthusiasts worldwide to join in honoring the milestones that have defined the global film industry and to anticipate the exciting developments awaiting moviemakers in the years to come.
