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Hengdian, often referred to as “China’s Hollywood,” is not just a moniker but an apt representation of the enormous impact and presence this hub has in the global film and TV landscape. Located in the heart of East China’s Zhejiang Province, Hengdian is gearing up to further its legacy with the Hengdian Film and TV Festival, which is scheduled to unfold over the span of two days.
This annual extravaganza promises a deep dive into the world of film and television. More than just an exhibition, the festival features three curated seminars that provide insights into a variety of topics, ranging from the evolution and growth of the industry to groundbreaking innovations and technological advancements in film and TV. Furthermore, the expo is a prime opportunity for film promotions, networking with industry meetings, and the much-anticipated Wenrong Awards ceremony.
The significance of Hengdian in China’s entertainment milieu is hard to overstate. Approximately one-fourth of the nation’s film and TV content, and a staggering two-thirds of its costume dramas, find their genesis in Hengdian’s studios. With a roster of over 80,000 extras registered under the Hengdian Actors Guild, it’s a testament to the base’s sheer scale and influence.
Financial figures further underscore Hengdian’s monumental role. In 2022, the Hengdian Film and Television Cultural Industry Complex reported an impressive revenue of 22.064 billion yuan, marking a 4.4 percent growth from the previous year. This growth trajectory is not just limited to Hengdian. With developments like the Qingdao Oriental Movie Metropolis, China’s film and TV industry is evidently on a steadfast path of high-quality evolution.
An integral component of the festival, the specialized seminars, serve as a pulse-check for the industry. Around 800 professionals, including experts, scholars, business tycoons, and celebrities, are set to converge, share insights, and chart the course for the industry’s future.
2023 is particularly poignant as it marks a remarkable resurgence of China’s film and TV industry after the setbacks faced due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Hengdian’s studios now buzz with activity, teeming with production crews and a steady influx of tourists.
Beyond just being a production hub, Hengdian continually innovates, blending film experiences with tourism. Jing Weiwei, associated with Fujian Film Studios, lauds Hengdian’s dual role in not only spearheading China’s film and TV growth but also pioneering the amalgamation of film with tourism services.
A testament to Hengdian’s allure is Pan, a 54-year-old enthusiast from Fujian Province, who lives his dream by playing minor roles at the studio. The vast expanse of Hengdian accommodates every filmmaking need, from majestic historical setpieces to intimate street scenes, making it the birthplace for masterpieces like Hero, Empresses in the Palace, and Nirvana in Fire.
On the horizon is the Wenrong Awards, poised to bring a fresh perspective to the evaluation methodologies in the industry, shining a spotlight on niche segments and hinting at the future.
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