The 13th Silk Road International Film Festival opened on Saturday in Xi'an, capital of northwest China's Shaanxi Province, featuring more than 2,000 films from 139 countries and regions.
This year's event, which runs through Sept. 23, received 2,130 film entries -- a record high -- spanning a wide range of genres and themes.
A notable highlight is the newly introduced Children's Film Season section. More than 60 children's films from around the world were submitted, with 15 outstanding titles selected for the shortlist.
A series of professional events, such as the "Belt and Road" Film Industry Development Dialogue, will also be held, covering diverse areas including international cooperation, copyright trading, the integration of film and tourism, and technological innovation.
For the first time, organizers have established a guest country in-depth cooperation mechanism, inviting Egypt to serve as the guest country and hosting events such as film screenings and thematic dialogues.
More than 400 films will be screened during the festival in cinemas, on online platforms, at outdoor venues and on university campuses, with special discounted screenings for the public.
Organizers will also team up with 13 commercial entities to stage a series of film-themed side events combining movies with dining, outings, entertainment and open-air markets. Filmgoers can enjoy discounts and other offers at participating merchants by presenting their ticket stubs.
First held in 2014, the Silk Road International Film Festival is an international cultural exchange event under the Belt and Road framework, jointly hosted by China Media Group and the governments of Shaanxi and Fujian provinces, with the two provinces taking turns to host the event.
13th Silk Road Int'l Film Festival opens in Xi'an
