Riding on the momentum of the booming box office success of the Spring Festival movie Ne Zha 2 and carrying on the glory of the 120-year history of Chinese cinema, the 15th Beijing International Film Festival (BJIFF) arrives as scheduled with the theme of “New Quality Films Empowered by Technology, Showing Harmony in Diversity”. On March 27, the press conference for the 15th BJIFF was held, unveiling a prosperous and grand cinematic spectacle.

The 15th BJIFF Press Conference 

This year's BJIFF will be held from April 18 to 26, under the guidance of the China Film Administration, hosted by China Media Group and the People's Government of Beijing Municipality, and undertaken by Beijing Municipal Film Administration, Beijing Municipal Radio and Television Bureau, China Film Group Corporation, Beijing Radio & Television Station (BRTV), Huairou District People's Government of Beijing Municipality, Beijing Film Academy, and Beijing Enterprises Group Company Limited.

Yu Junsheng, Deputy Secretary General and Deputy Director of the Publicity Department of Beijing Municipal Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), Director and Press Spokesperson of the Information Office of the People’s Government of Beijing Municipality, Secretary of the Leading Party Members Group and President of BRTV, and Vice Chairman and Secretary General of the Beijing International Film Festival Organizing Committee 

Wang Lu, Director of the Film and Television Translation and Production Center of China Media Group and Deputy Secretary General of Beijing International Film Festival Organizing Committee

This year, the president of the International Jury for the “Tiantan Award” of the 15th BJIFF is Jiang Wen, a Chinese director and actor. The jury members include: Chinese director and actress Joan Chen, British director David Yates, Chinese actress Ni Ni, Finnish director Teemu Nikki, director and actor Vincent Perez from Switzerland, the Guest Country of Honor, and art director Tim Yip from Hong Kong, China.

Tiantan Award Jury 

A total of 15 films have been shortlisted for the Competition Section of “Tiantan Award” of this year's BJIFF, including 12 foreign films and 3 domestic films, which are as follows:

International Jury for Forward Future Section

Xu Tao, Deputy Secretary of the Party Leadership Group and Chief Editor of BRTV and Executive Deputy Secretary General of Beijing International Film Festival Organizing Committee 

The official poster for this year’s BJIFF has been released at the press conference. It was designed by Huo Tingxiao, Vice Chairman of China Film Association and President of China Film Art Direction Academy, who has served as art director on films such as Farewell My Concubine, Hero, and House of Flying Daggers.

15th BJIFF Official Poster 

The official poster blends reality and imagination to exquisitely present the cultural brilliance of ancient Chinese palace architecture and the spirit of mutual learning among civilizations. It deeply integrates the essence of traditional Chinese culture with cinematic art, creating a masterpiece with both striking visual impact and profound cultural significance.

The poster, in a kaleidoscope shape, symbolizes cinema as a medium that reveals a dazzling world. In the poster, our side of the kaleidoscope is a series of evolving colorful rings that incorporated the BJIFF windmill logo. Passing through the rings, a radiant "Morning Star" hangs high in the night sky. The “Morning Star”, the brightest object in the sky other than the Sun and Moon, embodies the role of cinema as a guiding light for dreamers.

The design also draws inspiration from the coiling dragon caisson of the Wanchun Pavilion in the Forbidden City. The caisson is a key element of Chinese wooden architecture. Simply put, it is like the ceiling of a building, to which skilled craftsmen in ancient China added exquisite carvings, paintings, and patterns, reflecting the Chinese people's magnificent imagination as they gazed into the sky. Movies are like a caisson - ingeniously crafted by filmmakers to tell stories that are brilliantly imagined, deeply meaningful, and emotionally refined.

The pattern gracefully incorporates the essence of traditional Chinese culture, drawing together the vibrant energies of heaven and earth. Meanwhile, using cinema as a medium, the BJIFF also unites diverse cultures from around the world. The poster and the festival complement each other. The pattern suggests that Beijing, as a national cultural center and an international exchange center, draws on its unique artistic charm to build a bridge of cinematic art that fosters mutual learning among civilizations, a journey akin to the upward gaze through a caisson in the sky. It also implies that China, through the lens of cinema, is presenting the image of a major country that embraces the future, engages in dialogue with the world, and is open-minded and inclusive.

This year, the “Beijing Film Panorama”, which is the most anticipated by Beijing citizens and film enthusiasts, will focus on commemorating the 120th anniversary of Chinese cinema. It pays tribute to cinematic heritage through light and shadow, and continues to fuel the high-quality growth of the film market. This year's “Beijing Film Panorama” has planned 18 units, with nearly 300 outstanding films from across the globe. Around 900 screenings will take place in 33 top-tier commercial cinemas, arthouse theaters, and performance venues throughout the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. In terms of film selection, the Beijing Film Panorama will launch the “120 Years Applause: Chinese Film Special Screening” on the occasion of the 120th anniversary of Chinese cinema. To commemorate the 130th anniversary of world cinema, a themed screening of “130 Years Self-portrait” has been specially curated to document the history of film and envision its future; For the first time, the Master Retrospective section will feature a theme that focuses on the group portraits of filmmakers: “Endless Waves: 30 Years of the Dogma 95”. Marking the 100th birthday of film master Robert Altman, the largest retrospective of his works ever held in China will be launched. With a curated selection of cinematic classics, the festival blends nostalgia with new perspectives - drawing inspiration from the past to ignite future creativity.

This year, the series of forums will be upgraded with a new brand name, the “BJIFF Core Forums”, including four theme forums, five special forums, three newly introduced open classes, and three workshops & masterclasses. Renowned director Huang Jianxin has been invited as the Art Advisor for the core forums. 

Huang Jianxin, Art Advisor for BJIFF Theme Forum 

The four theme forums will cover the following topics: "IP Development and the Upgrading of the Film Industry," "Creative Paths that Sync with the Times and Resonate with Audiences," "The Application and Innovation of Emerging Technologies in the Film Industrial Chain," and "The Relationship Between Film Distribution, Audiences, Content, and Platforms." These discussions will explore four key areas: industry, creativity, technology, and the influence of distribution. The five special forums will focus on topics such as film investment and financing, the development of China's film capital (Huairou), young filmmakers, young film critics, and the high-quality development of Chinese cinema. The three open classes will focus on film art, cinematography, and acting. Featured speakers include Chinese film art master Huo Tingxiao, renowned Chinese artist Timmy Yip, and Chinese cinematographer Bao Dexi, among others. The three workshops & masterclasses will be taught by Chinese directors Jiang Wen and Jia Zhangke, as well as French film icon Isabelle Huppert. 

The brilliance of thought and the spark of artistic inspiration alternate and shine throughout the series of events, collectively expressing the heartfelt vision of filmmakers from both China and abroad for the future of cinema.

This year, the BJIFF introduces the innovative “Next Frame Space” brand, creating a dedicated space for young filmmakers to learn, showcase their work, network, and relax. For the first time, a Final Jury for Project Pitches will offer “small-class” sessions to support the development of these projects.

This year's “Project Pitches” will feature over 20 projects' road shows during the festival. Director Chen Sicheng will lead the Final Jury for Project Pitches as the President, with Dong Runnian, Rao Xiaozhi, Jojo Hui Yuet-chun, and Zhang Zifeng serving as final jury members. The Project Pitches Training Camp will be guided by a team of eight mentors, including Wen Muye, Ying Luojia, and Zhou Dongyu, forming a comprehensive creative guidance system. The BJIFF Organizing Committee will provide continuous creative support funding and production resources, working together to incubate four high-quality short films, which will have their premieres during the festival. Industry leaders with sharp eyes will offer a helping hand to aspiring filmmakers, giving them a boost to realize their dreams.

In addition, for the first time, the “Most Anticipated Young Director's Work of the Year” awards ceremony will be held, in collaboration with leading film companies to showcase and promote eight outstanding works by emerging filmmakers. This initiative aims to inject fresh talent into the industry and support the flourishing and high-quality development of the film sector.

　　

The “Film Carnival”, with the theme “Follow the BJIFF to Huairou”, will create a new lifestyle that blends film art. From April 5 to May 5, over 60 film and cultural activities will be held across two core areas - Beijing Yanqi Lake International Convention & Exhibition Center and the China Film Capital, as well as at Shentangyu of Yanqi Buye Valley and seven towns within the district. Special events like the Film Music and Food Carnival will be organized to attract more residents to “spend their weekend at the film town” and experience “a lifestyle called Huairou”.

This year's festival will retain and upgrade the AIGC Unit. The final jury for this segment will be led by renowned director Guan Hu, with jury members including The Lion King director Rob Minkoff, actress Tan Zhuo, university technology and creative expert Wang Lei, and emerging young director Chen Jianying. The Cinematic Futurity Film Science and Technology Section, first introduced last year, will be further upgraded. It will continue to host a series of academic events, including themed discussions, roundtables, and industry salons, maintaining a strong focus on cutting-edge global film technology. By building a co-creative and exchange platform that integrates academia, technology, and film, this section aims to drive the high-quality development of the film industry.

The NEWHER Women-Focused Film Section has been newly upgraded, with its workshop introducing a short film director selection program for the first time. Over 100 young female directors participated, with five finalists chosen to create short films within a set timeframe. Five renowned female filmmakers will serve as production mentors, providing comprehensive guidance and support to nurture the growth of emerging female directors.

The Game-Based Animated Films Section will be hosted at Guangyang Academy, a cultural landmark in Xicheng District. This section aims to establish a platform for young creators to exchange ideas and support the growth of China's new generation of animation talent.

In terms of the entries, this year's Tiantan Award, the official Competition Section of the BJIFF, received 1,794 feature film submissions from 103 countries and regions - an 18.9% increase from last year's 1,509. The number of participating countries and regions has once again set a new record, with international submissions reaching 1,608, accounting for nearly 90% of the total. The entries feature a diverse range of genres and themes.

The year 2025 marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Switzerland, with Switzerland being the Country of Honor at this year's BJIFF. For the first time, the festival will host the “China Film Overseas Distribution & Promotion” recognition event, awarding the Outstanding Contribution to Chinese Film Overseas Distribution honor to 10 domestic and international film distribution companies. This initiative aims to further enhance the global competitiveness and influence of Chinese cinema. The International Lounge actively invites top global copyright companies and, for the first time, invites renowned film festival selectors to Beijing. A series of events, including film screenings and sharing sessions, will be organized. The Everlasting BJIFF initiative will be further advanced with the “Tiantan Image” Chinese Film Screening Program set to take place in key cities across five countries, including Paris, France, actively promoting Chinese cinema on the global stage.

The BJIFF·32nd Beijing College Student Film Festival will be held from April 21 to May 4, across multiple districts in Beijing and at the Zhuhai campus of Beijing Normal University. The event will kick off with an opening ceremony and the “Youth Night” closing ceremony for college students, alongside special programs marking the 120th anniversary of Chinese cinema, academic forums, the “Youth Honor” selections, film screenings, and other activities. These initiatives aim to inject energy and vitality into the long-term development of Chinese cinema.

At the opening ceremony of the BJIFF, the China Film Administration, China Media Group, and other organizations will jointly launch the Chinese Film Consumption Year initiative. Taking the BJIFF as an opportunity and the film activities as platforms, Beijing will further innovate its approach and integrate resources. The Beijing Film & Life Festival will be co-hosted by the BJIFF Organizing Committee, the Publicity Department of the CPC Beijing Municipal Committee, the Beijing Municipal Film Administration, the Office of Cyberspace Affairs Commission of CPC Beijing Municipal Committee, the Beijing Municipal Commerce Bureau, the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism, the Beijing Municipal Radio and Television Bureau, the Beijing Municipal Cultural Heritage Bureau, and the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Sports. The Beijing Film & Life Festival, themed “Watch Movies, Enjoy Life”, will widely engage market participants and extend the activities of the BJIFF activities throughout the entire city. The festival will create a “second venue” to stimulate the “ticket stub economy” and plan four major activity sections: “Enjoy Cuisine with Movies”, “Travel with Movies”, “Spring Discount Movie Viewing”, and “Movie Cultural and Creative Carnival”. Together, we will create a new consumption scene integrating culture, commerce, tourism, and sports, providing citizens and audiences with a more diverse and rich cultural experience.

In this city-wide film carnival with the theme of “Watch Movies, Enjoy Life”, the vibrant atmosphere of the film festival will extend to every corner of the city, truly integrating film culture into the daily lives of citizens.

Lu Huiling, member of the Party Leadership Group, Deputy Director, and Press Spokesperson of the Beijing Municipal Commerce Bureau

While optimizing the main venues in Huairou District and Langyuan Station in Chaoyang District, BJIFF will establish a second venue by livestreaming key events - including opening and closing ceremonies, red carpet activities, masterclasses, and professional forums - on large screens in cinemas, theaters, shopping malls, and other urban spaces. This aims to broaden the festival's reach and influence. Additionally, large screens and public spaces in over 50 major commercial districts, screening venues, and participating businesses will prominently display festival posters, updates, and event information, creating a film-themed consumption experience and enhancing public engagement with various film activities.

First, BJIFF will collaborate with Qianmen, Wangfujing, and Chongwenmen business districts, as well as over 600 merchants across 30+ shopping centers - including nine commercial hubs under China Resources Mixc Lifestyle, 14 Wanda Plazas, Scitech More, Changying Paradise Walk, Lize Paradise Walk, Solana, China Central Place, LIVAT, and Huaxi LIVE - to offer discounts for BJIFF ticket stub holders. All participating commercial districts will feature BJIFF-themed decor, while Galleria-Instreet will host open-air film screenings, post-screening meet-and-greets with casts and crews, live music performances, trendy markets, and pop-up brand events. Second, in collaboration with Maoyan, Meituan, Ctrip, and Tongcheng Travel, the festival will unlock bundled discounts on “film + dining + tourism” experiences, allowing visitors to access exclusive deals via mobile apps with just one tap. Third, moviegoers can enjoy ticket discounts for watching the International Equestrian Creative Spring CSI1 event and the FEI Jumping World Cup™ - China League (Beijing Station) by presenting their BJIFF tickets during the festival period. Fourth, the time-honored brands will embrace new trends, offering exclusive and fresh experiences. Apparel brands like Hongdu and Neiliansheng, food brands such as Liubiju and Yueshengzhai, arts and crafts brands like the Enamel Factory and Yidege, and catering establishments including Quanjude, Bianyifang, Cuihualou, and Dongxinglou are all rolling out special activities, such as free drink exchanges with ticket stubs or 20% discounts. Moviegoers can savor the flavors of Beijing cuisine, admire the beauty of traditional attire, and marvel at the mastery of time-honored crafts while enjoying films. Old-established shops in the Qianmen Dashilar business district will also launch a series of promotional activities during the film festival.

During this year's BJIFF, the organizers have meticulously planned four distinctive activity segments, weaving diverse consumption scenarios together through film culture to provide citizens and visitors with an immersive and all-encompassing cinematic life experience.

Xu Zhentao, member of the Party Leadership Group and Deputy Director of the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism

First, Meituan has invested 10 million yuan to launch special promotions for BJIFF. Consumers can participate in a variety of preferential promotions on “dining, accommodation, transportation, travel, shopping and entertainment” by searching for “Beijing International Film Festival” or “BJIFF 2025” on Meituan. Second, 31 participating cinemas have partnered with over 300 nearby restaurants, offering exclusive discounts for moviegoers who present their ticket stubs. A “Taste of Beijing” cinema-food guide will also be released. Third, three movie and food carnivals will be launched. The “Spring Scenes·Movie Bazaar” will be co-hosted by the BJIFF Organizing Committee, CMG's Beijing Station, and Douyin Life Service, and will feature over 100 vendors including cultural and creative brands, trendy domestic products, top-rated restaurants on Douyin platform, and entertainment businesses. Langyuan Station in Chaoyang District will bring together more than 30 top-rated premium dining and entertainment brands on the Douyin platform to create a special food zone. Haidian District will launch the “Wukesong Film & Food Festival” with the theme of “A Feast of Films, A Journey for the Taste Buds”. Huairou District will hold a Film, Music & Food Carnival on the shores of Yanqi Lake, bringing together over 80 global flavors, Beijing time-honored brands, and Huairou local delicacies. The carnival will also host music activities such as symphony performances, Mongolian throat singing, and trendy Chinese opera shows.

First, platforms like Ctrip and Tongcheng Travel will launch 12 “Travel with Movies” themed tour routes. Ctrip is offering guests of this year's BJIFF half-price discounts on 2-day and 1-day tours in Beijing, as well as free half-day tours, while providing complimentary customized tours for jury members. The Tongcheng Travel platform will distribute 100,000 travel voucher packs. Attendees can claim these vouchers on the ticket purchase confirmation page after buying tickets for festival screenings, enjoying discounts on round-trip flights and train tickets. Third, Huairou District will select 30 hotels and 72 homestays, offering discounts ranging from 12% to 50%. The district is introducing 13 “Celebrity-Approved Itineraries”, as well as family-friendly and study tour routes, and launching a "Film-Themed Train to the Film Capital," so as to connect key scenic spots and popular check-in locations.

Section 3: “Spring Discount Movie Viewing” Event at BJIFF

During the BJIFF, the Beijing Municipal Film Administration, in collaboration with Beijing Maoyan Weiying Culture Media, will launch a discount movie viewing event. The campaign will feature limited-time discounts, instant discounts on ticket purchases, dedicated film sections, and a special BJIFF zone, creating a consumer-friendly atmosphere to encourage moviegoing. The initiative will cover over 270 cinemas across the city, with an estimated total discount value of 5 million yuan.

Section 4: BJIFF Movie Cultural and Creative Carnival

First, Langyuan Station in Chaoyang District will host a cultural and creative fair, featuring a highlight exhibition of hand-painted posters celebrating Ne Zha 2 surpassing 100 million yuan at the box office. Over 30 museums will showcase new cultural and creative products as well as popular bestsellers. Second, Wanda Plaza in Wukesong, Haidian District will launch the “Spring Anime Carnival”, bringing together film and TV derivatives, intangible cultural heritage crafts, and time-honored brand creative products. A classic anime scene photo zone will be set up, creating an IP carnival for anime and film culture. Third, for the first time, official BJIFF cultural and creative products will be available at the “Beijing Gifts” flagship store in Xiushui Street, offering exclusive discounts to ticket-holding festival attendees.