An academic seminar marking the 40th anniversary of western Chinese film theory has been held this week at Northwest University, located in Xi’an, Shaanxi province in Northwest China.

The three-day seminar is held to commemorate the birth of Western Chinese film theory at Northwest University.  

In March 1984, esteemed film aesthetic theorist Mr. Zhong Dianfei introduced the theoretical concept of "focusing on the northwest and exploring new types of 'Western films'" in Xi'an, marking the birth of Chinese Western film theory.

The seminar held from Sept 21-23 aimed to reflect on 40 years of academic research and creative practices in Western Chinese cinema, foster the creation of high-quality films in Western China, contribute to the cultural empowerment strategy, modernization path of China, national cultural heritage, and promote cultural exchange, mutual learning, and international communication along the Belt and Road initiative.

Sun Qingwei, president of Northwest University, delivers a speech at the opening ceremony.

President Sun Qingwei highlighted Northwest University's rich history in film and television education, emphasizing the institution's international, specialized, and distinctive educational philosophy. He stressed the importance of ongoing theoretical research, leveraging historical and cultural resources, and geographical advantages to propel Western Chinese cinema to new heights of prosperity and development.

Various activities were conducted during the three-day seminar, including themed essay competitions, film review contests for college students, and the filming of micro documentaries celebrating the 40th anniversary of Western Chinese film theory's inception.

Film review competition is launched at the seminar.

Professor Zhang Ali from Northwest University gives a keynote speech at the seminar.

Professor Zhang Ali from Northwest University delivered a keynote speech, outlining the 40-year evolution of Western Chinese cinema, identifying core cultural attributes, and emphasizing the genre's artistic exploration in the new era, leading to the emergence of innovative poetic imagery.

Experts and scholars engaged in discussions on aesthetics, genres, styles, film theory, cultural communication, directors, production, regional space, cross-border integration, and the future of Western Chinese cinema within the context of "the Belt and Road" initiative.

Additionally, cultural investigations were conducted at the Xi'an Film Studio Park and the Xi'an Film Studio Museum during the seminar.