Established in 1958, the China Film Archive (CFA) stands as a beacon of cinematic preservation and cultural exchange. As a national-level film cultural institution, the CFA is not only a pivotal hub for film academic research in China but also a significant platform for international film cultural exchange.
The CFA’s extensive functions include film collection, restoration, screening, and academic research. Over the past decades, it has played a unique role in promoting the dissemination of classic films both in China and around the world. Since becoming a member of the International Federation of Film Archives in 1980, the CFA has held retrospective exhibitions of films from numerous countries, including the United Kingdom and France, showcasing over 300 films.
Currently, the CFA preserves more than 30,000 Chinese and foreign films from all eras in its vaults located in Beijing and Xi’an. In 2006, the CFA launched a digital restoration project dedicated to enhancing the preservation and inheritance of China’s cinematic heritage. This initiative has not only safeguarded thousands of films but also helped share Chinese stories with the world.
To date, the CFA has completed the digital preservation of over 3,000 films and has restored hundreds of classics in 2K and 4K resolution. Through these efforts, the CFA continues to bridge cultures and generations, ensuring that timeless cinematic treasures remain accessible for future audiences.
