On October 20, the Opening Ceremony of 9th Chinese Film Festival in Christchurch was held at Riccarton Hoyts Cinema. Chinese Consul General Jin Zhijian, Mr. Liang Ge, Deputy Director General of Film Bureau of State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television, Mayor Winton Dalley of Hurunui,Christchurch City Councillor David East, amongst a crowd of nearly 200 guests.
In his address, Consul General Jin expressed his heartfelt congratulations to the opening of the Film Festival. He stressed that Chinese culture was extensive and profound, film was a bridge not only for cultural exchanges but also for communication and friendship. The biennial Chinese Film Festival had been held 9 consecutive sessions and had made an important contribution to the promotion of cultural exchange and cooperation in film industry as well as the enhancement of friendship between two peoples. Mr. Jin said the 12 well-selected films must be welcomed and loved by Christchurch people.
Mr. Liang Ge, Mr. Winton Dalley and Mr. David East also gave speech at the event, all appreciated the Film Festival positively.
After the opening ceremony, Consul General Jin and guests enjoyed the premiere movie Ballet in Flames of War.
Film festivals between China and New Zealand have been held since 1998 and now are running in alternative years, which is co-hosted by Film Bureau, State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television, P.R of China and New Zealand Film Commission.