Hollywood who? Shanghai is stealing the spotlight as the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF) launches its 10-day cinematic extravaganza! Running June 13-22, this year’s opening night gala (June 14) doubles as a birthday bash – celebrating both 130 years of global cinema and 120 years of Chinese film magic. 🎂🎞️
Dubbed a “cultural soft power” booster, SIFF has become Shanghai’s answer to Cannes – minus the palm trees, plus epic skyline views. The festival fuels China’s booming film industry while serving up red-carpet glamour and cutting-edge storytelling for movie buffs worldwide. 🌆✨
This year’s theme? Light, Shadow, and the City That Never Sleeps. Organizers promise an opening ceremony blending cinematic history with Shanghai’s urban pulse – think neon-lit tributes to film legends and VR-enhanced walkthroughs of movie milestones. 🕶️🚀
Pro tip for pop culture fans: Keep eyes peeled for surprise appearances by China’s rising film stars and veteran directors dropping wisdom like “action!” calls. 🎥🌟
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Watch: Opening night gala of 27th Shanghai International Film Festival
cgtn.com