Messages of love at opening of festival

By Xu Wei  |   2008-6-15  |     NEWSPAPER EDITION

THE curtain was raised on the 11th Shanghai International Film Festival at the Shanghai Grand Theater last night with an outpouring of love on the red carpet.

Movie stars from home and abroad left their signatures and best wishes for the Sichuan earthquake victims as they entered the theater.

More than 300 celebrities attended the grand opening, including Hong Kong star Jackie Chan, mainland actress Zhou Xun, Taiwan heartthrob Joseph Cheng, Japanese actor Takao Osawa, Italian actress Maria Cucinotta and veteran Chinese filmmakers Gu Changwei and Jia Zhangke.

Clips showing classic movie scenes of humans facing disasters with courage and wisdom were screened.

After that, Hong Kong film maker Wong Kar-wai - president of the seven-member jury panel which also includes German producer Ulrich Felsberg and Danish director Bille August - gave a speech urging film industry leaders to present more powerful and thoughtful works.

"It's impossible not to be touched by the strong will, the energy, the fearlessness which Chinese people displayed over the past month," Wong said. "We all gather here tonight to celebrate film. Let us also celebrate hope."

THE Lifetime Achievement Awards went to the 87-year-old Chinese actress Qin Yi and the late Oscar-winning British director Anthony Minghella. Actress Zhang Ziyi also received an award for her contribution to Chinese cinema.

"This award is a big encouragement for me," she said. "As a young actress, I know there's still a long way for me to go."

At a film forum yesterday afternoon, Zhang also shared her concern for children who suffered in the earthquake.

This year, 16 films are vying for the top prize, the Golden Goblet, including "Urtin Duu" by ethnic Mongol film maker Hasichaolu and "Nick of Time" by mainland director Gao Qunshun.