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Journey of Chinese Film Veterans

In an inspiring tale from China’s film industry, a group of esteemed film veterans has drawn motivation from a personal letter penned by President Xi Jinping. The letter served not only as recognition but also as a rallying call for these artists to immerse themselves in real-life experiences as they create future cinematic works.

The Significance of Letters in Chinese Culture

Letters hold a unique place in Chinese tradition, valued for their sincere expression of thoughts and emotions. This cultural belief enhances the weight of President Xi’s letter, making it a momentous occasion for those in the film industry. Eight legendary figures, including the acclaimed actress Song Xiaoying, expressed their heartfelt reactions to receiving such an acknowledgment from the President, signifying a connection between their lifetime of work and the broader narrative of Chinese cinema today.

A Message of Encouragement

President Xi's letter, communicated on July 10, reaffirmed the importance of the arts in modern China's cultural landscape. He highlighted the need for filmmakers to create works that resonate with the zeitgeist and reflect the aspirations of the people. Song Xiaoying, who has dedicated over five decades to film, expressed deep pride upon receiving such words. “Knowing that the President is invested in our industry makes me extraordinarily proud,” she said. This sentiment was echoed across the artistic community, emphasizing a united vision towards a culturally rich future.

Staying Rooted in Real Life

A key theme in Xi's letter was the importance of staying grounded in reality. Song Xiaoying shared that to authentically portray characters, immersion in real-life experiences is paramount. For instance, to prepare for her role in the historical war film Guerrillas Sweep the Plain, she experienced life in actual tunnels, gaining insights that deeply informed her performance. This ethos of drawing from life continues to guide her work as she encourages younger filmmakers to observe and learn from real-life narratives.

“Art needs nourishment from the soil of life,” Song emphasized, noting that every role she takes on begins with extensive research and engagement with the people whose stories she aims to tell.

Crafting Stories of the People

Fu Ruoqing, chairman of the China Film Group Corporation, reiterated this sentiment. He recalled touching moments shared between the film crew and war veterans during the making of The Volunteers. Such interactions not only inspire the cast but also bring history to life for audiences. Fu illustrated this with a veteran’s emotional response to scenes from the film, reinforcing the belief that when art reflects the struggles and triumphs of its people, it resonates deeply.

Celebrating Cinema’s Legacy

The historical context of Chinese cinema dates back to 1905, yet the industry has evolved remarkably over time. The milestones achieved today, including record-breaking films like Ne Zha 2, showcase the global impact of Chinese films. With over 1.01 billion cinema visits in 2024 alone, it’s evident the passion for cinema remains vibrant. The President’s encouragement aims to propel filmmakers toward creating narratives that are impactful and culturally significant.

Looking Ahead: The Road to Excellence

The reactions from the film community following President Xi's letter indicate a renewed commitment to authenticity in storytelling. Chen Daoming, a renowned actor and chairman of the China Film Association, emphasized the letter's role as a guiding framework for the industry. “Through our joint efforts, we aim to create works that reflect the beauty of the Chinese spirit and the cultural confidence that defines us,” Chen stated.

With many artists, including Song Xiaoying, expressing their excitement for future projects, the call to action from President Xi appears to rejuvenate the passion for storytelling rooted in the lives of the people. As these filmmakers prepare to craft artworks that inspire and celebrate community, they eagerly anticipate demonstrating the strength of their cultural heritage through cinema.

In conclusion, the profound responsibility laid upon this generation of filmmakers is met with enthusiasm and dedication. With a commitment to authenticity, they stand ready to engage audiences, ensuring that the essence of real life continues to shine through in their future creations.