#China #Beijing #iQIYI #Golden Screenwriters #screenwriting

iQIYI's Golden Screenwriters' Night: A Celebration of Creativity

On June 11, iQIYI hosted its fifth annual Golden Screenwriters' Night, a prestigious event that recognizes the brilliance of screenwriters in China’s dynamic entertainment industry. This year, the ceremony honored a total of 62 talented writers and showcased 20 exceptional works, spanning various formats including films, drama series, and animated features.

The Golden Screenwriters' Night has evolved into a hallmark of excellence in screenwriting, demonstrating iQIYI's commitment to nurturing the creative ecosystem. This initiative not only shines a spotlight on emerging and established talents but also emphasizes the importance of storytelling as a cultural commodity.

During the event, the diversity of storytelling was on full display. Noteworthy honors included the titles of “Most Influential Screenplay” awarded to the critically acclaimed drama series "We Are Criminal Police," and “Most Innovative Screenplay” given to "To the Wonder." These accolades underscore the impact and resonance of the narratives crafted by talented screenwriters. Furthermore, the award for “Best Female-Centered Screenplay” was presented to the touching film "Like a Rolling Stone," while the feel-good film “Viva La Vida” received the honor of “Best Adapted Screenplay for Theatrical Film.” In animation, the engaging series “Oh My School Season 5” was recognized for its compelling storytelling, receiving the award for “Best Original Screenplay for Chinese Comics.”

Xiaohui Wang, Chief Content Officer of iQIYI, emphasized the critical evolution of screenwriters’ roles in the rapidly changing landscape of media and entertainment. He highlighted how this year's entries reflect an innovative approach to narrative creation, merging emotional depth with creative expression. Wang noted, “What we witnessed this year shows both a relentless pursuit of quality and a willingness to push boundaries.”

This year introduced additional categories recognizing outstanding writing in modern and period drama adaptations, as well as a focus on female-centered narratives. These initiatives sideline traditional norms and showcase iQIYI’s dedication to fostering a rich and inclusive array of storytelling perspectives.

The Golden Screenwriters' Night not only celebrates achievements but actively promotes the next generation of cinematic creators. Through long-term programs like the Online Film Young Creators Project, iQIYI supports talented newcomers with funding, mentorship, and holistic development opportunities. This commitment exemplifies how iQIYI seeks to intertwine originality with quality content, ensuring a sustainable future for creative industries.

The recognition process is rigorously conducted, with honorees chosen by a prestigious panel of seasoned filmmakers, scholars, and industry professionals, evaluating submissions on thematic depth, artistic merit, originality, and audience engagement. By tirelessly advocating for filmmakers, iQIYI fortifies its role as a leader in creating a vibrant narrative fabric that represents diverse voices and experiences.

As iQIYI continues to celebrate storytelling's transformative power, the Golden Screenwriters' Night stands as a testament to the platform's unwavering pursuit of excellence in storytelling. This annual event not only captivates the creative community but also leaves a lasting impact on the broader cultural landscape in China.

In moving forward, iQIYI's dedication to nurturing new talent and embracing innovative storytelling promises to reshape the future of entertainment, carving a path for fresh voices and diverse narratives that will resonate with audiences both domestically and globally.