Earlier this month at the 7th Hainan Island International Film Festival (HIIFF), filmmakers from around the world gathered on the sunny shores of Hainan for some serious movie magic! 🎬🌴
German filmmaker Julian Radlmaier, director of Phantoms of July, and Russian producer Kirill Krasovski sat down with CGTN’s Zhang Meng to share their first impressions of the Chinese mainland. Both guests were struck by how stories can bridge continents.
“No matter where you’re from, a great film hits your heart,” said Radlmaier. “Our film is about memories and ghosts—but in Hainan, the audience reacted just like in Europe. It’s magic!”
Krasovski added, “We were so impressed by the openness of audiences in the Chinese mainland. They laughed, they cried, they connected. That’s proof that cinema is a universal language.”
They also praised HIIFF’s diverse lineup—from big-budget blockbusters to indie gems. For Radlmaier and Krasovski, the festival is more than a showcase; it’s a launchpad for fresh collaborations. 🤝
Looking ahead, both hinted at exciting cross-border co-productions. Imagine blending European art-house vibes with stories inspired by Asia—could be the next big thing! ✨
With the Chinese mainland’s booming cinema scene and HIIFF’s friendly vibe, the stage is set for collaborations that break cultural walls one frame at a time. Stay tuned! 🍿
Reference(s):
HIIFF 2025: German and Russian filmmakers on cinema's universality
cgtn.com
