Kyrgyz Film 'Black Red Yellow' Triumphs at 2025 Shanghai Festival

The 27th edition of the Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF) concluded with a remarkable array of winners, featuring the Kyrgyz film "Black Red Yellow" as the recipient of the coveted Best Picture award. The festival, which ran from June 12 to June 20, 2025, showcased a diverse selection of films from around the globe and highlighted the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in filmmaking.

Held at the prestigious Shanghai Grand Theatre, the closing ceremony attracted filmmakers and audiences alike, reflecting the festival's commitment to bridging cultural exchanges. Giuseppe Tornatore, the president of the jury and Oscar-winning director of "Cinema Paradiso," praised the event's global representation, stating, "Each competition film was unique and magnificent."

"Black Red Yellow," directed by Aktan Arym Kubat, is a contemplative exploration of rural life and the complexities of marriage, earning accolades for its authentic portrayal of the human experience. The jury commended the film for its ability to reflect the intricate fabric of life, a sentiment echoed by Tornatore during the awards presentation.

In addition to the Best Picture award, the Jury Grand Prix was awarded to two films: Shinya Tamada's Japanese drama "On Summer Sand," which tells the story of a man's rediscovery of hope through family, and Wang Tong's Chinese thriller "Wild Nights, Tamed Beasts," noted by the jury as the emergence of a significant voice in Chinese cinema.

The Best Actor award was presented to Jose Martins for his powerful performance in "The Scent of Things Remembered," a co-production between Portugal and Brazil, which delves into themes of racism and trauma. The festival also recognized local talent, with veteran director Cao Baoping winning Best Director for his energetic comedy "One Wacky Summer," while Qiu Sheng received the Artistic Achievement trophy for his AI-themed film "My Father's Son."

This year, SIFF expanded its reach significantly, screening approximately 400 films across 40 cinemas in Shanghai and extending to neighboring cities such as Hangzhou and Nanjing. The festival also introduced a "ticket-stub economy," allowing attendees to exchange stubs for exclusive merchandise and experiences, further enriching the cultural engagement.

A notable aspect of this year’s festival was its focus on AI's impact on cinema, with a special showcase featuring AI-generated imagery integrated into classic films. The initiative, titled "Kung Fu Movie Heritage Project: 100 Classics AI Revitalization," aims to leverage AI technologies to reimagine significant works in Chinese cinema. Hu Min, director of the China Film Foundation, emphasized the project's potential to foster a new ecosystem for action films reflective of contemporary society.

As the film industry globally grapples with the implications of AI, China's approach appears proactive, with filmmakers embracing this technology as a tool for creativity rather than a threat.

In summary, the 2025 Shanghai International Film Festival not only celebrated cinematic excellence but also showcased the resilience and adaptability of the global film community in the face of technological advancements. The success of "Black Red Yellow" and the festival's dynamic programming highlight the importance of cultural storytelling in an increasingly interconnected world, setting a promising precedent for future editions of SIFF.