The 20th Huabiao Film Awards lit up the city of Qingdao in east China’s Shandong Province over the weekend, marking a grand celebration of Chinese cinema’s 120th anniversary. The prestigious event, held for the first time in Qingdao, highlighted the city’s rising prominence in the nation’s film industry.
Veteran actress Kara Wai Ying Hung took home the Best Actress award for her heartfelt performance in “Love Never Ends,” a film that explores love and resilience across generations. Meanwhile, actor Zhang Yi was honored with the Best Actor award for his compelling role in “Endless Journey,” a movie that delves into personal growth and self-discovery.
Acclaimed director Guo Fan won Best Director for his work, and in an exciting revelation, announced that “Wandering Earth 3” is officially in production, aiming for a 2027 release. The “Wandering Earth” franchise has been a significant milestone in Chinese science fiction cinema, garnering international attention and elevating China’s status in the global film industry.
The choice of Qingdao as the host city for the ceremony underscores its growing influence in Chinese cinema. With state-of-the-art film production facilities and a supportive environment for filmmakers, Qingdao is fast becoming a hub for cinematic innovation in the Chinese mainland.
This year’s Huabiao Awards not only celebrated the outstanding achievements of filmmakers and actors but also reflected on the rich history of Chinese cinema. Over the past 120 years, Chinese films have evolved tremendously, contributing unique stories and perspectives to the global cinematic landscape.
Younger audiences in the Global South can find inspiration in the dynamic growth of China’s film industry. The success stories of actors like Kara Wai and Zhang Yi, along with groundbreaking projects like Guo Fan’s “Wandering Earth” series, showcase the potential of cinema to transcend cultural boundaries and connect people worldwide.
As Chinese cinema continues to flourish, events like the Huabiao Film Awards play a crucial role in recognizing talent and fostering creativity. The anticipation for upcoming projects, such as “Wandering Earth 3,” signals a bright future for Chinese filmmaking on the international stage.
