CINEMA HERITAGE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
“Cinema Heritage IFF Is A Global Ode To Cinematic Legacies, Culture, And Emerging Talent At UNESCO.”
BY SUNAMOYA - 29 DECEMBER 2023 
“Cinema Heritage IFF Is A Global Ode To Cinematic Legacies, Culture, And Emerging Talent At UNESCO.”
The inaugural Cinema Heritage International Film Festival (Cinema Heritage IFF) was a symphony of cinematic magic, held in the heart of Paris at the UNESCO headquarters on November 28. This historic event, graced by the support of UNESCO and the President of Kyrgyzstan, unfolded with an air of grandeur and finesse. Led by the dynamic Audrey Azoulay of UNESCO, the charismatic Sadyk Sher-Niyaz, and the visionary producer Kuban Toichubayev, this premiere edition marked the genesis of a promising tradition set to captivate audiences for years to come.
AITYSH France organised the Cinema Heritage IFF to be more than a mere festival; it was a celebration embracing accessible cinema and the preservation of global cinematic legacies, guided by UNESCO's principles. Beyond showcasing films, it was a vibrant tapestry of emerging talent, a tribute to the rich history of global cinema, and a vibrant call for the exchange of diverse cultures.
Aligned with UNESCO's ideals, the festival spotlighted films narrating the myriad stories of people and cultures, while nurturing emerging talent, safeguarding historical heritage, fostering intercultural dialogue, and promoting cultural exchange.
In the opulent VIP lounge perched atop the 7th floor, a soirée unfolded—a gathering of luminaries from the world of cinema, where the air crackled with the energy of animated conversations among actors, directors, and distinguished guests. This gala, part of a festival with ambitious aims, sought not merely to celebrate but to cultivate talent, safeguard heritage, foster global dialogue, and facilitate the vibrant exchange of cultures.
The guest list read like a tapestry woven with diversity and prestige. It included the esteemed presence of the First Lady of Kyrgyzstan, delegates hailing from an array of UNESCO-affiliated nations, and esteemed ambassadors whose mere presence elevated the evening's ambiance. As the night unfurled, anticipation swirled in the air like a subtle prelude, hinting at the promise of an unforgettable experience—an evening poised to etch its memories into the annals of time.
Taking centre stage in the front hall downstairs is the "Guizhou Shui Minority Photography Exhibition" showcasing the captivating work of Mr Grégoire de Gaulle, a maestro behind the lens from France, the talented Chinese photographer Mr Fan Zhenyin, and the captivating Bulgarian photographer, Miss Eliana. Their spellbinding journey to the Shui Minority area in Qiannan, Guizhou Province, China, in 2019, unfolded through an exhibition that was mesmerising, creating an electrifying buzz that resonated throughout the festival. Drawing in over 1,000 enthusiastic visitors, the exhibition serves as a testament to the profound beauty of China and the dedicated preservation and transmission of minority cultures. The evocative photographs not only invite viewers to appreciate the visual splendours of the region but also celebrate the ongoing efforts in safeguarding and passing on the rich heritage of the Shui Minority.
— SUNAMOYA
CINEMA HERITAGE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
“Cinema Heritage IFF Is A Global Ode To Cinematic Legacies, Culture, And Emerging Talent At UNESCO.”
“The festival was a collaborative effort involving esteemed organizations such as the UNESCO Community Association (U.C.A.), CINEMA HERITAGE I.F.F, China Intercontinental Communication Center (CICC), the France-China Cultural and Artistic Exchange Centre (CECF), and the French-Chinese Cultural and Artistic Exchange Centre (FCCAC).
Partnering with associations like the France-China Academic and Cultural Exchange Association (ACEFC), AllBeijingers in France Association, and the Beijing People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, China Day offered an immersive cultural experience. The event garnered enthusiastic support from the Leading Group for the Declaration of the Memory of the World Register of Water Books in Qiannan Prefecture, Guizhou Province, and was enriched by the "Future World" International Youth Art Exhibition and other contributors.
It was a time shared with cultural splendour and filled with international camaraderie, leaving an indelible impression as a remarkable and enlightening experience.”
The opening ceremony, held in Hall 1 of UNESCO Headquarters, witnessed a captivating moment as Ambassador Sadyk Cher-Niyaz of Kyrgyzstan presented the esteemed Chinese filmmaker Zhang Yimou with the Lifetime Achievement Award on behalf of the Organizing Committee. Zhang Yimou, the distinguished guest of honor at the inaugural Cinema Heritage International Film Festival, stole the spotlight as the event celebrated his illustrious career with a thoroughly deserved lifetime achievement award.
His cinematic journey boasts triumphs like clinching the Golden Bear at the 1988 Berlin Film Festival for "Red Sorghum" and earning the Silver Lion at the 1991 Venice Film Festival with "Raise the Red Lantern." His captivating storytelling prowess continued to shine with the Golden Lion wins in 1992 for "The Story of Qiu Ju" and 1999 for "Not One Less." The magic persisted at the Cannes Film Festival in 1994, where he secured the Grand Prix for "To Live." Zhang Yimou's indelible impact on a generation of film enthusiasts stands as an enduring legacy.
The second day of the festival was dedicated to celebrating Chinese culture, featuring a spectacular exhibition that showcased landscapes, books, and literary documents highlighting the Shui ethnic group from Guizhou, China. This captivating display spotlighted China's cultural treasures, focusing on the Shui Shu documents and replicas.
The exhibition offered insights into cherished values deeply embedded in Chinese tradition, such as harmony, benevolence, and righteousness. The Shui manuscripts, essential records of the Shui people—a community of four hundred thousand in south and southeast Guizhou—originated from this region, providing invaluable insights into their endangered culture.
The exposition, featuring the Shujing compilation, provided a comprehensive journey through the cultural allure of Shui Shu. It showcased customs, calligraphy, and research findings that unveiled the distinctive facets of Shui culture. The tradition of seeking supernatural consent through Shui masters added a unique layer to the manuscripts, creating a compelling narrative.
Covering astronomy, geography, folklore, religion, ethics, philosophy, art, and history, Shui manuscripts serve as indispensable keys to understanding Shui culture. They contribute significantly to broader studies, offering a wealth of information and insight into the rich heritage of the Shui people.
The day was further enriched by captivating dialogues from Mrs. Marietta Banchev, President of the UNESCO Community Association (UCA), and the charismatic Ms. Tong Aiming, leading the France-China Culture and Art Exchange Centre. Their speeches, alongside insightful introductions from Ms. Huang Jing of the Five Continents Communication Centre and the eloquent Mr. Wen Yongsheng, délégué Minister of Propaganda of Qiannan Prefecture, Guizhou Province, created a notable global exchange.
The festival also featured a fascinating demonstration where a skilled calligrapher created documents, showcasing the exquisite art of calligraphy. With an array of art and tradition, attendees could indulge in authentic Chinese tea or a refreshing cocktail, while an exhibition of drawings and paintings by young talents on the theme of "Tomorrow's World" added to the experience.
Moreover, the day included a conference on Chinese cinematographic art by Mr. Fenqiang OUYANG, a renowned Chinese actor and artist, followed by an inspiring speech. Solo singing by Mr. Charles Qun CAO, a bass-baritone singer and director of the East Coast Music Academy in the UK, as well as traditional dance performances, added to the cultural extravaganza.
The musical performances, including piano played by Mr. Yingming QIN, a celebrated pianist and Chevalier de la Légion d'honneur, and the enchanting melodies of the Guzheng, created a vibrant ambiance enjoyed by a diverse audience from the fashion, art, and music industries, alongside diplomats and ambassadors.
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