Chengdu, famed for its pandas and fiery cuisine, takes the spotlight from September 12–13 as it hosts the 2nd Golden Panda Awards, drawing filmmakers and cinephiles from around the world to celebrate storytelling in all its forms.
The Golden Panda Awards use China’s favorite furry ambassador as a symbol of friendship and cross-cultural connection. Around 65 works have been shortlisted, with 27 awards to be presented across four categories: Film, TV Series, Documentary, and Animation. Notably, 54.5% of the finalists are international productions, selected from 5,343 entries submitted from 126 countries and regions.
One of the standout contenders this year is Qash (Run), nominated for Best Actor in a Leading Role, Best Actor in a Supporting Role, Best Cinematography, and Best Original Score.
Starring Yerkebulan Daiyrov and Ondassyn Bessikbassov, the Kazakh film is set against the backdrop of the mass famine of 1931–1933, which wiped out nearly a third of the population.
Directed by Aisultan Seitov, the film follows Isatai, a gravedigger tasked by his village head with delivering a message to the nearest city in hopes of saving the starving villagers. Crossing the vast steppe, Isatai faces harrowing trials, including surreal hallucinations driven by hunger and despair.
Also known as Asharshylyk, the tragedy was the result of forced collectivization and sedentarization imposed by the Soviet regime. In his drive for rapid industrialization, Stalin ordered the transformation of Kazakhstan’s traditional nomadic, clan-based society into collective farms, where individuals were compelled to meet strict state quotas for meat and grain.
The abrupt policy shift, coupled with reckless implementation, led many herders to slaughter their livestock either for immediate food or to sell in hopes of meeting grain requirements. Ultimately, this devastated the pastoral economy and fueled mass famine.
Director Aisultan Seitov (center) meets fans of Qash in Shanghai, June 14, 2023; image: VCG
Qash marks the feature-film debut of director Aisultan Seitov, who first gained recognition as a music video producer. Inspired by the growing presence of culturally distinctive films on international screens, Seitov was drawn to make a full-length film.
The narrative took shape after a close friend shared a childhood story of his grandfather fleeing his village with his older brother. In interviews, Seitov has said he hopes to showcase Kazakh culture to the world while crafting a story that resonates universally.
That aligns neatly with the festival’s own motto: celebrate diversity, spark dialogue, and remind us that stories, whether about pandas, people, or epic journeys, are what bring civilizations together.
Beyond celebrating award winners, the Golden Panda Awards serve as a dynamic hub for international film professionals to exchange ideas and explore potential collaborations. Judges, creators of nominated works, and influential directors, producers, actors, and experts from home and abroad come together for in-depth discussions on topics ranging from digital-intelligence empowerment to the art of light and shadow. Collaborative dialogues, exhibitions, and new project launches further expand opportunities for creative partnerships.
This September, Sichuan Province transforms into a cinematic playground with events called “Let’s Watch Films Together,” where film lovers can dive into a feast of stories, local culture, tantalizing cuisine, and unforgettable travel experiences.
Picture this: start the day with an award-nominated documentary, enjoy a bowl of noodles for lunch, and end it at a riverside night market where films play on a giant outdoor screen. The whole province turns into an open-air cinema, with 50,000 screenings spread across 10 landmarks, 5 universities, lively streets, and even a night market.
An increasing number of travelers from China and abroad are flocking to the Golden Light Cave on Qianyuan Mountain in Jiangyou, Sichuan Province, which inspired the blockbuster Nezha 2; image: VCG
To give filmgoers a full sensory adventure beyond the screen, travel Vloggers and food influencers have joined the celebration, sharing 14 recommended travel routes that let audiences explore the real-life locations and savor the local cuisines behind the stories.
What’s more exciting is that film viewers can unlock special perks by showing their ticket stubs, enjoying discounts at select hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions across the province. So far, more than $5.6 million in film discount coupons have been handed out, making the festival a feast for both the eyes and the wallet.
So whether you’re a director hunting for your next big collaboration, a movie buff chasing screenings across temples and night markets, or just a foodie looking for an excuse to binge dumplings between films, Chengdu’s festival has you covered. Because here in Sichuan, cinema isn’t just about sitting in the dark with popcorn; it’s about stepping into the light, onto the streets, and into a world where stories, cultures, and people connect.
