From April 15 to 22, 2026, the Forward Future, hosted by Beijing Film Academy, will be unveiled at the 16th Beijing International Film Festival (BJIFF).

Founded at the 4th BJIFF, the Forward Future is for the purposes of “discovering the new filmmakers around the globe in China’s view and encouraging originals on the new wave of films in the world”. The section strives to highlight the cultural connotations of films in various forms and foster the exchange and communication among young filmmakers all over the world. All the first or second feature films are welcomed regardless of genre, type or style.

For the Forward Future, five world-renowned filmmakers are invited as an international jury, with Feng Xiaogang, a Chinese director, screenwriter and actor as the president, Anthony LaMolinara, an American director, screenwriter, animator and visual effects artist, Iván Fund, an Argentine director, screenwriter and producer, Wei Xiang, a Chinese actor and Chang Chia-lu, a Chinese screenwriter and producer (Taiwan) as members. Chinese actress Li Xueqin will serve as the Youth Promoter for this section. From the 14 selected films, the international jury will award seven honors, namely “Best Film”, “Best Director”, “Best Screenplay”, “Best Actress”, “Best Actor”, “Best Artistic Contribution” and “Jury Special Mention”.

Every great cinematic journey begins with a first frame: every legendary master in film history was once a first-time director—moving from telling their own stories to reflecting the vast world, and from their first feature-length film to the mastery of a mature style. Growth itself is the most compelling narrative for any filmmaker. Now, five internationally renowned filmmakers together with the Forward Future, turn their attention to emerging talents. By offering a platform for new voices and supporting bold, innovative work, they create a space where the masters of tomorrow begin their journey.