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

"Discovery" is a keen gaze; "perception" is an emotional resonance. The Forward Future aims to discover and recognize directors' first and second narrative feature films from around the world, spanning diverse subjects, genres, and styles. It seeks to "discovering the new filmmakers around the globe in China's view and encouraging originals on the new wave of films in the world", highlighting the cultural connotations of films in various forms and boosting the exchange and communication among young filmmakers all over the world.

The Forward Future focuses on rising stars of global cinema, perceiving their cinematic expressions that blend innovative spirit with distinct styles, and discovering the unique value of cutting-edge imagery. Here, we not only behold avant-garde and highly individualistic works but also uncover the cultural brilliance of what young global filmmakers "think, feel, and focus on", experiencing a creative landscape filled with passion and dynamic tension.

This year, a total of 1,826 feature films were submitted from 139 countries and regions, 681 of which were the first or second features of their directors. The 13 films shortlisted for this edition's "Forward Future" emerged from these 681 entries. The 13 new cinematic works observe the world through diverse perspectives and connect with audiences through authentic artistic creation. For these emerging filmmakers, the Forward Future marks their first step into the film industry, grounded in the present while looking firmly toward the future. Notably, all foreign films shortlisted in this year's Forward Future are World Premieres or International Premieres. This April in Beijing, cinephiles will embark on a journey of discovery, opening "artistic blind boxes" of brilliant new works.

The 16th Beijing International Film Festival

 "Forward Future" Official Selection

The Forward Future will present seven prestigious honors selected from the 13 shortlisted films: Most Popular Feature Picture, Most Popular Director, Most Popular Screenplay, Most Popular Actress, Most Popular Actor, Most Popular Artistic Contribution, and Jury Special Mention. The results will be officially unveiled at the "Forward Future" Honors Ceremony on April 22, 2026.

Simultaneously, the 13 shortlisted films for this year's Forward Future will be screened during the 16th BJIFF. Many sessions will feature post-screening Q&As with the core creators. We invite all cinephiles to stay tuned for ticketing updates. Come discover, come perceive—"Forward Future" invites you to share in this moving feast of youthful cinema!