How should a film project be evaluated? The above is a set of criteria generated by DeepSeek. But is that all? The BJIFF Project Pitches have always upheld the vision of “bringing a story and leaving with a film.” Over the span of just three months, eight esteemed jury members meticulously reviewed 507 submitted projects, adhering to a professional and rigorous approach. In contrast to AI-generated evaluations mentioned earlier, the jury’s assessment of these projects considered a far more diverse range of dimensions.

Unlike AI-generated responses, the jury combined years of industry expertise and market acuity, placing greater emphasis on commercial logic and humanistic values. This approach imbued the evaluation process with warmth and depth, ensuring a more insightful and nuanced assessment of each project.

　　

In this year's project pitches, we witnessed a blend of traditional genres refined to perfection and groundbreaking disruptions brought by the AI wave. During the preliminary review phase, the jury maintained an exceptional level of diligence, meticulously examining every detail that could potentially impact the quality of the projects.

　　

Preliminary Review On-site Photos

During the selection process, a key point of debate emerged among the jury: Should preference be given to projects with well-rounded stories and mature frameworks, or should they focus on projects that, while currently flawed, exhibit great potential and could shine brightly after further refinement? One jury member remarked, “There are too many homogenized scripts nowadays, but this project stands out with its emotional expression that could captivate audiences. With subsequent revisions, it might just become a ‘dark horse.’” Another jury member voiced concerns about the project’s structural deficiencies, calling them a fatal flaw: “Although the emotional depth is noteworthy, the narrative framework is weak, making it difficult to determine a clear revision path - this poses a significant risk.”

　　

Preliminary Review On-site Photos

“This project’s subject matter is intriguing, but its potential varies drastically - it’s a high-risk, high-reward endeavor.” Another commented, “This period drama offers a strong sense of immersion but would require a high production budget.” Yet another observed, “This script explores a novel and unique theme rarely seen in the domestic market, but it may struggle to resonate with local audiences.” When evaluating promising projects, the jury not only highlighted their strengths but also assessed them in terms of market acceptance, production complexity, and feasibility.

　　

Preliminary Review On-site Photos

The jury’s deliberations resembled an unscripted drama, with each jury member taking center stage, voicing their perspectives with passion and conviction. In the end, 29 script projects, 10 WIP projects, and 5 sports-related projects emerged from the rigorous selection process and advanced to the second-round review of the 15th Beijing International Film Festival Project Pitches. The shortlisted project teams will engage in one-on-one interviews with five final-round jury members on April 2 and 3. Congratulations to the following shortlisted projects!

　　

In the vibrant spring of Beijing, where light and shadow pulse like budding shoots, every frame breathes with the promise of emerging brilliance. The seeds of project pitches planted in this event are poised to grow into towering trees. Let us eagerly anticipate the remarkable performances of these projects in the “Next Frame Space”, where dormant talents will finally bask in the light of recognition.