Civilization Flourishes Through Exchange: Launch of Screening of Outstanding Historical and Biographical Dramas from Abroad

On June 24, the "See the World, Discover the History" exhibition of outstanding international historical and biographical series was launched in Shanghai. The event, organized by the International Cooperation Department of the National Radio and Television Administration, was attended by nearly a hundred representatives from the National Radio and Television Administration, the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Radio and Television, provincial TV stations, online audio-visual platforms, and domestic and international production and distribution agencies.

The showcased series, including Shakespeare: RISE OF A GENIUS (2023), ROGER FEDERER: A CHAMPION'S JOURNEY (2023), POMPEII: THE NEW DIG (2024), and "WINNING TIME: THE RISE OF THE LAKERS DYNASTY" (2022), represent the best of international productions. These shows exhibit three key characteristics: they cover a wide range of subjects from literary adaptations to biographical documentaries, feature diverse themes including historical figures, cultural developments, sports, science, and literature, and hail from various countries, including the UK, France, USA, Italy, Russia, and Canada. These programs are not only thought-provoking and artistically crafted by renowned global production houses but also offer visual delights with their exquisite set designs, high-quality costume details, and sophisticated special effects. Shi Zhiyan, a senior inspector at the International Cooperation Department, noted that in recent years, many exceptional works rooted in Chinese culture have been well received globally, while excellent foreign TV programs have also achieved success in China, enriching the spiritual and cultural life of the domestic audience. This exhibition aims to enrich viewers' international perspectives, helping the Chinese public better understand and engage with the world and reflect on the past and present.

Shanghai, the cradle of Chinese cinema and a vibrant hub for television drama production, actively integrates Eastern and Western cultures while forging new cinematic peaks. Luo Yi, Deputy Director of the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Radio and Television, stated that Shanghai, as a globally influential modern international metropolis, serves as a crucial window for showcasing China to the world. The Administration plans to use this exhibition as an opportunity to further strengthen and refine content across various screen sizes, leveraging Shanghai's unique geographical advantages to enhance its international communication capabilities. This initiative aims to contribute significantly to "creating a Shanghai model of cultural confidence and strength, and building the best practice area for Xi Jinping's cultural thoughts".

This exhibition marks China's first large-scale, high-standard broadcast of foreign historical and biographical series. Zheng Yiwen, Chairman of the Shanghai Literature and Art Critics Association and President of Wenhui Daily, noted that audiovisual works are crucial carriers for cultural exchange between China and the world in the new era. This event is expected to foster cultural exchanges and provide domestic audiences with intellectual stimulation and aesthetic pleasure, given the high quality of the programs in terms of thoughtfulness, artistry, and entertainment value.

The launch ceremony featured a compelling excerpt from the British series SHAKESPEARE: RISE OF A GENIUS (2023), and Sabrina Duguet, Executive Vice President of All3media International, shared her experiences and insights on her creation process.

Starting in June, Shanghai, Hunan, Guangdong, Sichuan, and other provincial TV stations, along with online platforms like Youku, Tencent, Bilibili, and Sohu, will broadcast these series, offering Chinese audiences a vivid window into the history, culture, science, and social development of various countries.

The 29th STVF is hosted by the National Radio and Television Administration, China Media Group, and the Shanghai Municipal People’s Government, and organized by Shanghai Municipal Administration of Radio and Television and Shanghai Media Group, with co-organization by the Administration Committee of Lin-gang Special Area of China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone, and special support from Shanghai Lingang Special Area Investment Holding (Group) Co., Ltd.