Dec 19, 2023

China-Cambodia Master Filmmakers Dialogue Forum Goes Deep into Xiamen University

2023 marked the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Cambodia. To deepen international exchanges in film culture, the 2023 China (Xiamen-Fujian) -Cambodia Film Week opened in Huli District, Xiamen City on December 19.

As a flagship event of the Film Week, the China-Cambodia Master Filmmakers Dialogue Forum was held at the Arts & Science Center of Xiamen University on the morning of December 20, where participants explored new opportunities and avenues for the development of film culture in China and Cambodia.

Quan Hai, Deputy Party Secretary and Secretary of the Commission for Discipline Inspection of Xiamen University, delivered an opening address prior to the forum. He noted that the year coincides with the 65th anniversary of China-Cambodia diplomatic ties, and expressed great delight that this cross-border master filmmakers forum was hosted at Xiamen University. The event not only explores more possibilities for cinematic art but also stands as a testament to the friendly exchanges between the two countries. He voiced hopes that both sides would further deepen cooperation, with Xiamen University contributing its share to advancing China-Cambodia bilateral relations, boosting global cultural exchange, and fostering prosperity in the worldwide film and television industry.

Topic 1: Opportunities and Challenges of Co-produced Films

The first topic was moderated by Sun Chengjian, Deputy Director, Research Fellow and Doctoral Supervisor at the Institute of Film and Television, Chinese Academy of Arts. He stated that film co-production unlocks a host of new opportunities, and cross-cultural collaboration and communication constitute a highly worthy subject for in-depth discussion. He expressed his wish that the forum would facilitate deeper integration and cooperation between Chinese and Cambodian film sectors. Following his opening remarks, panelists launched an extensive discussion around the theme.

First, Borak Pok, Director of the Cinema and Cultural Diffusion Department of the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts of the Kingdom of Cambodia, extended a warm welcome to foreign filming crews to shoot in Cambodia. He pointed out that Cambodia aims to break through its current bottlenecks in the film industry via partnerships with China. Through joint cooperation with the School of Film, Xiamen University, the two sides will cultivate emerging talents, and co-productions will boost people-to-people and state-to-state communication.

Song Yinxi, a Chinese filmmaker with triple credentials as director, screenwriter and actor, shared his personal experience of co-producing films and held in-depth exchanges with Cambodian directors, with both sides elaborating on their concepts and creative ideas for film production and co-production projects.

Cambodian director Huy Yaleng made clear his intention to co-produce films with China, expressing eager anticipation for joint China-Cambodia cinematic works.

Topic 2: Career Progression and Role Selection for Actors

The four panelists delivered witty yet professional discussions that drew rounds of applause from the audience. The forum then moved on to the second topic: Career Progression and Role Selection for Actors.

Responding to the question of how directors cast suitable performers for their works, Xie Fei, renowned Chinese film director, screenwriter and producer, remarked that casting directly determines a film's final presentation, and the match between an actor and the character is his top priority. He also shared anecdotes about casting during his shooting career.

Subsequently, Chha Boran, director of the film Lost Love, fully echoed Director Xie Fei's viewpoints and recounted his casting workflow before principal photography, stressing that actors who fit the character and script perfectly are always his first choice.

When asked about how actors pick roles at different career stages, Cambodian actor Ke Weihang said he prioritizes high-quality scripts, as a strong script can spark optimal on-screen chemistry with performers.

Zhong Chenyao, emerging young Chinese actress, stated that she values breakthroughs and challenges most. When choosing scripts, she prioritizes roles that push her boundaries, allowing her to portray diverse characters and constantly surpass herself.

All eight forum panelists engaged in brilliant discussions covering both themes. After the session, students in the venue lingered to exchange insights with the directors and actors.

The China-Cambodia Master Filmmakers Dialogue Forum stands as a highlight of the entire Film Week. Supported by the Cambodia Asian Film Festival, the National Film Authority of Cambodia and the School of Film, Xiamen University signed the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperative Human Resource Development for the Film Industry during the event. It is hoped that both parties will jointly nurture and export outstanding talents and exceptional China-Cambodia co-produced films to the global market in the years ahead.