Loveable, winner of the Tiantan Award for Best Feature Film, will hit theaters across China on September 5, promising one of the year’s most moving cinematic experiences
Fresh off its four-award triumph - Best Feature Film, Best Director, Best Actress, and Best Screenplay - at the 15th Beijing International Film Festival Tiantan Award, Norway’s Loveable has confirmed a September 5 release across China. Directed by Lilja Ingolfsdottir, this stunning debut was hailed by the BJIFF jury as “a film worthy of respect”, and its sold-out screenings at the Shanghai International Film Festival made it one of 2025’s most anticipated titles.
Official Release Poster for Loveable
The special previews sparked major buzz, capped by a surprise appearance by Best Actress Helga Guren
To build momentum before release, Loveable ran special screenings in Beijing on August 7 and 8. Screenings were sold out as soon as sales opened - clear evidence of how eagerly audiences await this four-award hit. In a delightful surprise, Helga Guren, the film’s star and Best Actress at the Beijing International Film Festival, travelled from Norway to join fans face-to-face.
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During the post-screening Q&A, she looked back fondly on the film’s seven-year creation. Guren shared that although financing was tough, it brought her closer to director Lilja Ingolfsdottir, and together they made a short film that laid the groundwork for the full-length version. Her role preparation included pages of personal notes and reflections. That dedication paid off - the film swept four Beijing festival awards, gained 23 accolades and nominations worldwide, and won a rare 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
BJIFF Four-Crown Champion
A Deeply Resonant Female Perspective
Loveable unfolds through a restrained, delicate female gaze, following Maria (Helga Guren)’s journey of self-discovery and growth after her marriage falls apart. Each chapter - sweet encounter, broken marriage, and rediscovery - captures the universal dilemmas women face in family and society. The festival jury praised it for “conveying the intricate and genuine nature of emotion through film”.
15th Beijing International Film Festival Jury and Media Viewing
At the special screening, rising Chinese director Han Xia and Guren exchanged insights on female-centered filmmaking. Han Xia said that Maria is a complex and authentic character; every tear, burst of anger, and moment of growth mirrors the real-life experiences of women - a valuable authenticity. Helga Guren shared that the film deconstructs intimacy through a female perspective, conveys the message “love yourself before loving others”. Using Maria’s relationship with her mother, she explored deep generational trauma that resonated strongly with viewers.
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Hitting Screens Nationwide September 5, A Must-Watch of the Year
As Lilja Ingolfsdottir’s feature debut, Loveable has drawn industry attention for its precise storytelling and sharp editing. Guren’s Best Actress performance captures Maria’s fragility and strength with remarkable nuance, making the award truly well-earned.
At the 15th Beijing International Film Festival Awards Ceremony
Crowned at BJIFF, this heartfelt film is more than just a movie, it’s a mirror in which every viewer can see themselves in Maria’s story. Join Loveable on the big screen on September 5 to explore life’s wounds and healing, and discover your own path.
