Just ahead of its grand opening, the Beijing International Film Festival has welcomed an honorary guest from the United States.
Hawk Koch is president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, best known for its prestigious Oscar awards. Koch shares some thoughts and suggestions for Beijing's film festival, as well for China's film industry overall.
The Beijing International Film Festival will launch its first ever jury awards this year - the "Temple of Heaven Awards." The move follows the example of A-Level film festivals such as Cannes, Berlin and Toronto, and is designed to shine the global spotlight on Beijing.
"I think anytime a festival gives an award, it brings attention to the festival, attention to the filmmakers. Then other people would want to come and bring their films. Because it's important to have a chance to make some noise," Koch said.
Having produced several blockbusters himself, including Primal Fear and Collateral Damage, Koch has some advice for Chinese filmmakers.
"You make movies about the human condition, and real humanity... Intimate stories that doesn't matter whether it's Chinese or Hungarian or Brazilian. It doesn't matter who they are.. Those are the ones that get most attentions from awards," Koch said.
Nevertheless, he has high expectations for the future of Chinese filmmakers on the global scene.
"I think Ang Lee is one of the best directors in the world. I suggest that filmmakers here look at the top five best foreign language films from last year. Look at them and see what they're about, and why do we think they were chosen. They all touched the heart," Koch said.
He has been invited to the Temple of Heaven for the opening ceremony of the Beijing International Film Festival, which kicked off on April 16.
(CNTV.cn April 16, 2013) |