"The BJIFF this year is abuzz with a special energy and excitement, creating an ideal setting for friends and relatives to come together, leisurely stroll around, and engage in conversations about films."

--Bai Zhiqiang 

　　Scene of the Project Pitches Salon for Young Filmmakers

The Organizing Committee of the Beijing International Film Festival (BJIFF) deliberately hosted this salon on the day following the Final Project Pitches and Awards Ceremony, aiming to match all the project owners who were requested for their WeChat accounts over the past few days to their "guiding lights". Joining us for this special occasion were outstanding filmmakers who ever made their mark at the BJIFF: directors Gu Xiaogang, Bai Zhiqiang, Li Pu, Zhao Lei, Larry Yang, Xu Lei, Da Fei, Gao Qianzi, as well as the moderator of the salon, Liu Peng. Together, they reflected on their personal journeys at the BJIFF Project Pitches, sharing the invaluable wisdom gained and the countless moments of joy, tears, obstacles, and triumphs encountered while crafting their cinematic works. They all shared their "exclusive know-how" with the up-and-coming filmmakers who are finding their place in the industry through Project Pitches.

　　Gu Xiaogang

▌The key to success in the film industry lies in the determination to keep shooting, to keep capturing life, and to never stop

Director Gu Xiaogang views filmmaking as a means of personal and artistic development, always approaching it with a learning mindset. "For filmmaking, completion is more important than perfection. Whether it's a commercial film or an art film, understanding the inherent genre and medium attributes is what we should strive for throughout our lives," said he. Furthermore, using his own creative journey in crafting Dwelling in the Fuchun Mountains as an example, he shared with the attendees how to achieve a better balance between market demands and audience reception. He emphasized that although the path to success may be arduous, the key lies in relentless pursuit and effort.

　　Bai Zhiqiang

▌"Passion" is the most vital component of the creative process

Director Bai Zhiqiang candidly shared his experiences as a humble creator, living in an environment akin to a wilderness where "having the cheek" becomes imperative to deliver exceptional artistic works. He further imparted three valuable lessons: Never let actors dictate your actions, instead strive to be the one in charge; Avoid fixating on authority and past successes; Trust is the prerequisite for collaboration, and keeping in step takes precedence. By remaining steadfast, following through with plans, and daring to take risks, opportunities will multiply. 

　　Li Pu

▌Completing a work holds more importance than striving for perfection

Director Li Pu shared his experience of creating his debut film under highly challenging circumstances. He highlighted the fact that, for a first-time endeavor, completing the project holds more importance than striving for perfection. Looking ahead, he expressed his determination to find a path that suits his personal development, focusing more on the process of self-rebuilding through the influence of others, as well as introspective exploration. He holds a steadfast belief that "authenticity is the lifeblood of cinema". As a young filmmaker, he advocates for fearlessly confronting the realities of our time and documenting every detail through the camera lens. 

　　Zhao Lei

▌Having a strong conviction is a crucial attribute that every director must possess

Drawing from shooting his film Still & Life, Director Zhao Lei engaged in a dialogue with young filmmakers in attendance. He highlighted the significance of "emotions" for a director. Mastering the art of embedding subtle emotions and creating an escalating impact forms an integral part of the creative process. Lastly, Zhao encouraged young filmmakers to strive and make the most out of the limited resources available to them. Execution is of paramount importance, and they should put forth their best efforts to be true to themselves and showcase their unique styles.

　　Larry Yang

▌Maintaining vitality and fueling creativity necessitates venturing beyond the comfort zone

Director Larry Yang opened up about his creative inspiration during a discussion with young filmmakers, stressing the constant need for exploration and expansion in this industry. He believes that the key to success lies in overcoming difficulties and fears with unwavering determination. According to Yang, "As long as you keep going and resist the temptation to remain behind the monitor, but instead immerse yourself in on-site communication, you will discover a whole new realm of emotions." It is during this fearlessly adventurous stage of youth that the creative spirit thrives. 

　　Xu Lei

▌Whether it's comedy or absurd comedy, telling a story with sincerity is essential

Director Xu Lei, known for his exquisite visual storytelling and vivid character development, shared his personal method of alleviating anxiety by watching quality films. He emphasized the importance of giving one's all in the creation of a film and staying true to oneself while crafting a unique style. When it comes to filmmaking, whether it's comedy, absurd comedy, or any other genre, telling a story with sincerity is essential. In the future, the director will continue to strive for the creation of more and better works. 

　　Da Fei

▌"Love" is the driving force that perpetuates boundless passion and unfettered creativity

Director Da Fei shared with young filmmakers the importance of expressing oneself in the most fitting manner, which has become one of the key approaches to breaking into the market. Based on his experience in the field, he underscored the importance of infusing a character with emotional depth. In an empowering message to young filmmakers, he acknowledges the challenges they may encounter and encourages them to support one another, as they collectively strive for growth. Optimistically, he envisions a brighter future for Chinese cinema.

　　Gao Qianzi

▌The director is the first audience of the actor

Director Gao Qianzi, during her interaction with young Chinese filmmakers, shared a plethora of valuable insights. "The market and the audience will only respond with love if you truly love them back," she said. "A good story must have an emotional core that holds universal value. We look forward to seeing young Chinese filmmakers go even further and present their films on the stage of the BJIFF next year!" 

　　Scene of the salon