The Shanghai International Film Festival, China’s most prestigious cinema event, kicked off its 30th anniversary signaling the resurgence of China’s film industry. This year’s edition is the first in over three years to be easily accessible to the global film community, following cancellations and online adaptations due to strict COVID-19 travel restrictions.

The festival aims to utilize its international platform to showcase Chinese film creation to the world industry through forums, markets, and other activities. The glitzy opening ceremony serves as a promotional platform for China’s forthcoming summer blockbusters, with renowned stars and directors gracing the red carpet.

In a different vein, the Shanghai International Film Festival stands out by welcoming the Russian film industry amidst bans imposed by Western festivals due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. While other festivals imposed blanket bans on Russian delegations connected to the Putin government, the Shanghai festival maintains an open stance, aligning with China’s geopolitical partnership with Russia.

Despite limited exposure in China’s commercial box office, Russian films, notably the animated Snow Queen franchise, have found international success. By actively participating in the Shanghai International Film Festival and the SIFF Market, the Russian film industry seeks to expand its reach and explore opportunities in the Chinese and Asian markets. Ekaterina Naumova, CEO of Roskino:

Our first, and such large-scale, offline presence at the SIFF Market will significantly strengthen relations between Russian film and animation companies and Chinese and other Asian market participants. We are building our work with China, interacting both with the professional industrial community and with wider audiences.- Ekaterina Naumova, CEO of Roskino.

Amidst the challenges faced by the film industry during the pandemic, the Shanghai International Film Festival continues to celebrate its 30th anniversary as a beacon of hope and resurgence. By embracing international collaborations, promoting cultural exchange, and welcoming the Russian film industry, the festival exemplifies its commitment to inclusivity and the global film community.