Global filmmakers gather to deepen cultural exchange and mutual learning

This year’s Tiantan Award, the official Competition Section of the BJIFF, received 1,794 feature film submissions from 103 countries and regions - an 18.9 percent increase from last year’s 1,509 entries. The number of participating countries and regions has once again set a new record, with international submissions reaching 1,608, accounting for nearly 90 percent of the total. The entries feature a diverse range of genres and themes.

The year 2025 marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Switzerland, with Switzerland being the Country of Honor at this year’s BJIFF. For the first time, the festival will host the “China Film Overseas Distribution & Promotion” recognition event, awarding the Outstanding Contribution to Chinese Film Overseas Distribution honor to 10 domestic and international film distribution companies. This initiative aims to further enhance the global competitiveness and influence of Chinese cinema. The International Lounge actively invites top global copyright companies and, for the first time, invites renowned film festival selectors to Beijing. A series of events, including film screenings and sharing sessions, will be organized. The Everlasting BJIFF initiative will be further advanced with the “Tiantan Image” Chinese Film Screening Program set to take place in key cities across five countries, including Paris, France, actively promoting Chinese cinema on the global stage.