A Gathering of Talents, A Springtime Encounter
As spring awakens and warm breezes sweep in, the Beijing Film Market of the 15th Beijing International Film Festival (BJIFF) has officially been announced. Renowned screenwriter and director Zhang Ji will once again serve as the Art Director of the Beijing Film Market, with actor Huang Xuan taking on the role of Pioneer Convener. Young actress Zhuang Dafei and actor Zhang Youhao have been invited to act as Youth Ambassadors for the Next Frame Space. This professional team will leverage their industry expertise and resources to provide comprehensive guidance to emerging filmmakers, creating an empowering platform that integrates professional development with industry networking.

Zhang Ji: Crafting Masterpieces with Artisanal Dedication
As a pillar of China's film industry, Zhang Ji has created numerous deeply moving works driven by his profound cultural foundation and sharp social insight. From the entrepreneurial fervor amid the reform and opening-up era depicted in American Dreams in China, to the poignant exploration of humanity and family ties in Dearest; From the portrayal of the indomitable spirit of the Chinese women's volleyball team in Leap, to the vibrant urban life captured in Tale of the Night - each of his works serves as a mirror, reflecting the most authentic face of our times.

Zhang Ji, Beijing Film Market Art Director
Zhang Ji's career as a screenwriter has been nothing short of remarkable, with his works earning numerous accolades and winning the hearts of audiences while garnering widespread industry recognition. He has claimed several prestigious awards, including Best Screenplay at the 33rd China Film Golden Rooster Awards and Best Screenplay at the 4th Beijing International Film Festival. Additionally, he was honored with the title of “National Virtuous and Accomplished Artist of Middle-Aged and Young Literary and Art Workers” at the 5th edition of this award, underscoring his outstanding achievements in screenwriting.
As a cornerstone of China's screenwriting community, Zhang Ji has consistently adhered to a meticulous and perfection-driven creative ethos. His critically acclaimed works, such as American Dreams in China and Leap, have resonated deeply with audiences. Beyond his role as a screenwriter, Zhang Ji has actively supported emerging talent by serving as a script supervisor and consultant, contributing to the healthy development of the industry. His works balance artistic merit with commercial appeal, showcasing profound humanistic care while capturing the pulse of the times, making him a paragon of contemporary Chinese screenwriting.
In his renewed role as the Beijing Film Market Art Director of the 15th BJIFF, Zhang Ji will continue to leverage his extensive creative experience and sharp artistic vision to provide professional guidance to young filmmakers and support the incubation and growth of high-quality film projects. Under his leadership, the 15th BJIFF is sure to inspire more heartfelt and impactful projects, injecting fresh vitality into Chinese cinema.
Huang Xuan: Pioneering the Path Forward as an Actor
As a familiar face at the Beijing International Film Festival, Huang Xuan has long become an indispensable figure on this event. In 2023, he served as a Jury member for Project Pitches, offering invaluable guidance to young creators through his years of accumulated expertise and discerning eye. This year, he returns with dual missions - as both an actor and an industry trailblazer - taking on the new role of Pioneer Convener for the Beijing Film Market. With this new responsibility, Huang Xuan is set to infuse even more energy and vitality into the festival, helping to elevate its impact and foster innovation within the industry.

Huang Xuan, Pioneer Convener of Beijing Film Market
Huang Xuan's acting career serves as a model for the diverse development of Chinese actors. He seamlessly navigates between art house films and commercial films, using deeply moving roles to interpret the boundless possibilities of the performing arts. The year 2017 marked his “highlight year”: in director Feng Xiaogang's Youth, he portrayed the idealist Liu Feng's purity and persistence with profound depth and precision; In director Chen Kaige's Legend of the Demon Cat, he brought the poet Bai Juyi to life, channeling both his untamed spirit and affectionateness. These two stylistically distinct works not only showcased Huang Xuan's versatility as an actor but also proved that artistic value and commercial success can coexist harmoniously.
This relentless explorer has never rested on his laurels. In 2020, his leading role in Wu Hai earned a spot in the Competition Section of the San Sebastián International Film Festival, showcasing the profound talent of Chinese actors to the world; In 2021, his portrayal of revolutionary pioneer Li Da in 1921 won him the Best Actor award at the Golden Crane Award. Behind these achievements lies his meticulous dedication to perfecting every role.
As the Pioneer Convener, Huang Xuan will fully leverage his extensive industry experience and sharp artistic intuition. He understands that a good actor must not only excel in performance but also shoulder the responsibility of driving the industry forward. Under his leadership, the Beijing Film Market at the 15th BJIFF will become a vital bridge connecting creativity with capital, tradition with innovation, injecting new momentum into the future of Chinese cinema.
Zhuang Dafei: A Rising Force, Shining with Gen Z Brilliance
As one of the standout young actors of Generation Z, Zhuang Dafei exemplifies the growth trajectory of a new generation of performers through her works. From a fresh-faced ingenue brimming with natural talent to a formidable actor capable of carrying projects independently, every step of her journey has been firm and purposeful.

Zhuang Dafei, Youth Ambassador
In the early stages of her acting career, Zhuang Dafei steadily accumulated experience. Her breakout role came in 2020 with Be My Friend, where she portrayed Li Jinbu, leaving a lasting impression on audiences and marking a pivotal moment in her career. In 2022, her role as Bai Tian in Rock it, Mom showcased her as a rebellious daughter, further cementing her place in audiences' hearts. Her first film, Johnny Keep Walking!, was a major milestone, earning her recognition as the “voice of Gen Z in the workplace”.
During the 2025 Spring Festival, Zhuang Dafei portrayed a fresh take on Huang Rong in Hark Tsui's Legends of the Condor Heroes: The Gallants. This marks her transformation from a relatable girl-next-door to a formidable martial arts heroine. This breakthrough not only highlights her limitless potential as an actress but also signals the rising prominence of Gen Z actors as a core force in the film and television industry.
As the Youth Ambassador for the Next Frame Space, Zhuang Dafei adheres to the philosophy of staying “follow her inner voice”. On screen, she is a versatile actress; Off screen, she is a relentless dream-chaser constantly pushing boundaries. This pure passion for acting is one of the most cherished qualities of Gen Z actors.
Hand in hand with the Next Frame Space, Zhuang Dafei is crafting a growth story for the new generation of actor - one defined by boundless potential, fearless individuality, and the power to redefine what it means to be young in the industry.
Zhang Youhao: Breaking Boundaries, Embodying Infinite Possibilities of Youth
Among the new generation of actors, Zhang Youhao gradually stands out with his distinctive acting style and unwavering pursuit of artistic growth. He has consistently maintained a clear understanding of his craft, refusing to be confined by a single type of role. Striking a balance between commercial appeal and artistic integrity, Zhang Youhao is carving out his own unique path in the world of performance.

Zhang Youhao, Youth Ambassador
From On Your Mark, Across the Furious Sea, to Girls on Wire, Zhang Youhao has consistently upheld the “Character-First” philosophy of acting. He excels at uncovering the unique essence of each role, bringing them to life with nuanced and layered performances.
As the Youth Ambassador for the Next Frame Space, Zhang Youhao is redefining the possibilities for young actors with his distinctive acting intensity and radiant energy. In his view, the art of performance has no definitive answers, each role represents a brand-new exploration.
Through his actions, he conveys a powerful message to the younger generation: On the journey to chasing dreams, only by staying passionate and daring to break boundaries can one write their own remarkable story. Walking alongside the Next Frame Space, Zhang Youhao will continue to embrace every role with an open mind, touching audiences with heartfelt performances.
The Beijing International Film Festival has reached its 15th year, witnessing the flourishing growth of China's film industry. Standing at this new starting point, we believe that under the collective efforts of filmmakers like Zhang Ji, Huang Xuan, Zhuang Dafei, and Zhang Youhao, the Beijing Film Market will continue to serve as a vital industry hub, fostering collaboration and energizing the ecosystem of Chinese cinema.
Film is the art of dream-making, and everyone should dare to be a dream chaser. In this vibrant spring season, let us look forward to a bright future for Chinese cinema and witness more captivating stories unfold on screen. The Beijing Film Market of the 15th Beijing International Film Festival eagerly awaits your presence at this cinematic rendezvous!