Opening up boosts China's Film Industry

Photo: Annabelle Sheehan at the New Zealand Central in Shanghai

The 21st Shanghai International Film Festival was in full swing in the second half of June. This year’s SIFF received a total of 3,447 film submissions from 108 countries and regions, nearly 1,000 more submissions than last year. 1,649 reporters from more than 20 countries and regions signed up for the festival as well, making Shanghai the focus of the global film industry and fans. The SIFF further enhanced Shanghai’s cultural influence, amid the city’s plan to highlight and reinforce its four brands--Shanghai manufacturing, services, shopping and culture.

What has attracted a growing number of film makers and fans from home and abroad to the SIFF? Will those international film producers seek further cooperation with China via this film festival? This year marks the 40th anniversary of China’a reform and opening up, so how do those foreign film makers feel about this policy? With these questions, our reporter had an interview with Annabelle Sheehan, new CEO of the New Zealand Film Commission to find out the answers.

SIFF: Window of exchange and cooperation for film industry

Photo:Annabelle Sheehan at the 21st Shanghai International Film Festival

"I first came to China in 2000 and I gave a week of lectures at Beijing Film Academy, and also Hangzhou and Shenzhen. I have been to China once a year for the past 5 years," said Annabelle Sheehan, talking about her relationship with the Chinese film industry, "Many Chinese films I have seen are so epic and impressive, like In the Mood for Love, Raise the Red Lantern, or Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, and I look forward to further exchanges with Chinese film production companies and producers."

"In terms of the Shanghai International Film Festival, every year it's adding different good things. The market is strong and the conferences and forums are very strong. For New Zealand to be at the Shanghai International Film Festival, it is an opportunity to both look at Chinese films and also meet Chinese producers, production companies, post-production houses, and to connect with those who are officially part of managing China’s co-production,” said Annabelle, who personally participated in the SIFF for the second time.