Chinese film authorities and China Movie Channel convened filmmakers and representatives at the China National Film Museum in Beijing on Sept. 13 to promote upcoming movies for the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays.

A press event is held at the China National Film Museum to promote upcoming holiday films in Beijing, Sept. 13, 2024. [Photo courtesy of China Movie Channel]

The Mid-Autumn Festival lineup features Frant Gwo's 3D version of "The Wandering Earth II" and a related documentary about the sci-fi blockbuster's production.

At the press event, Gwo explained that the 3D release was part of the franchise's original plan, emphasizing that specially designed 3D shots, such as those featuring the space elevator and planetary engine, will enhance the film's visual depth and detail.

Moby Kwok, director of the documentary film "Inside 'The Wandering Earth II'" and Frant Gwo, director of "The Wandering Earth II," go on stage to share their insights during a press event held at the China National Film Museum in Beijing, Sept. 13, 2024. [Photo courtesy of China Movie Channel]

The three-day holiday from Sept. 15-17 also includes several family dramas such as Yin Lichuan's "Like A Rolling Stone," Kang Bo's "Enjoy Yourself," and Yin Ruoxin's "Stand By Me." Comedies like Li Ji's "Keep Rolling" and Yu Guangyi and Yu Qiushi's "A Frozen Rage," along with Fu Dong's suspense crime film "All Suspects," round out the offerings. The critically acclaimed documentary "The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru," which recounts the heroic rescue of British prisoners of war from a sinking Japanese cargo vessel by Chinese fishermen during World War II, will continue its run.

Heavyweights will compete during the National Day holiday from Oct. 1-7. The lineup includes Chen Kaige's war epic sequel "The Volunteers: The Battle of Life and Death," the second installment of his ambitious trilogy.

"I hope this film enables young people to understand that era and reflect on the contributions made by the Chinese People's Volunteers soldiers within the historical context of that time," Chen said.

Chen Kaige, renowned Chinese director, speaks about his new film "The Volunteers: The Battle of Life and Death" during a press event held at the China National Film Museum in Beijing, Sept. 13, 2024. [Photo courtesy of China Movie Channel]

Among other notable films are Ning Hao and Xu Lei's comedy-drama "The Hutong Cowboy," Lu Chuan's sci-fi monster film "Bureau 749," Liu Jiangjiang's disaster drama "Give You A Candy," Oxide Pang's action thriller "High Forces," Wu Bai's crime film "Tiger Wolf Rabbit," and Zhang Luan's action-comedy "Panda Plan" featuring Jackie Chan and a real giant panda, as well as the animated feature "New Happy Dad and Son 6: Shrunk." Also highly anticipated is "A Tapestry of a Legendary Land," adapted from a popular stage dance drama.

Director Lu Chuan revealed that his long-anticipated film "Bureau 749" took eight years to make. He said he aimed to blend Chinese storytelling with international production techniques, seeking to showcase Chinese narratives and spirit in the global market.

Filmmakers pose for a group photo at a press event held at the China National Film Museum to promote upcoming holiday films in Beijing, Sept. 13, 2024. [Photo courtesy of China Movie Channel]

At the press event, China Movie Channel launched a media convergence livestream campaign to promote the films, including premieres and interviews with filmmakers and audiences. The channel and its website, 1905.com, will assist in marketing efforts. The China Movie Channel Moviegoing Community will also organize various film screening events.

This year's lukewarm summer film season fell short of expectations, with all films released during this period grossing a total of 11.6 billion yuan ($1.6 billion) — a significant decrease compared to last summer's 20.6 billion yuan. As a result, the upcoming holidays are crucial for Chinese film authorities and filmmakers as they aim to lure audiences back to theaters and boost the market.

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