The Pingyao International Film Festival has unveiled its lineup for the 10th edition, featuring a 4K restoration of Fei Mu's classic.
The Pingyao International Film Festival (PYIFF) has officially announced the full lineup for its highly anticipated 10th edition, scheduled to run from September 24 to 30, 2026. Among the highlights is a 4K restoration of Fei Mu's 1948 classic film, "Spring in a Small Town," serving as the festival's opening night feature. The festival will conclude with the mainland China premiere of the Hong Kong dramedy "Good Trip," directed by Norris Wong Yee Lam and Hoi Wong. This significant milestone emphasizes the festival’s commitment to celebrating cinematic history and emerging talents.
According to Variety, the lineup showcases a diverse selection of films and notable directors. The "Galas" section will feature award-winning works such as Cristian Mungiu's "Fjord" and James Gray's "Paper Tiger," both of which will have Asian premieres. Additionally, renowned South Korean director Na Hong-Jin's "Hope" and Spanish director Rodrigo Sorogoyen's "The Beloved" will have their mainland China premieres during the festival.
The Cinephile strand is also a notable aspect of the event, including Keane T.K. Wong's Hong Kong film "Afterpiece." Further, the festival will showcase three world premieres in the Hidden Dragons competition, highlighting works by emerging filmmakers from Malaysia, China, and beyond. This focus on new voices is an integral part of PYIFF's mission to provide a platform for innovative storytelling and fresh perspectives.
Highlighting the festival's dedication to preserving film heritage, the restoration of "Spring in a Small Town" aligns with the Pingyao 10-Year Tributes strand, which will also spotlight Pan Yilin's documentary "Echoes of Fei Mu," further celebrating the director's legacy. Fei Mu’s film is often regarded as a cornerstone of Chinese cinema, making its restoration an impactful cultural event. This classic serves not only as an artistic piece but also as a historical artifact, reflecting the cinematic and societal trends of its time.
Beyond the Chinese classics, the Crouching Tigers section of the festival promises an eclectic range of international films, with contributions from directors across multiple countries—from Colombia to Russia and Rwanda. This geographic diversity emphasizes the festival's goal of fostering cultural exchange through cinema, catering to an audience eager to explore global narratives.
Moreover, special presentations will feature works like a restoration of Allen Fong's "Just Like Weather" and the world premiere of Liu Wenpu's "A Better Jianghu." These selections are testament to the festival's adaptability and recognition of both established and emerging talents.
The 10th edition of the Pingyao International Film Festival marks a significant moment not only for the festival itself but for the broader cinematic community. By featuring major restorations, premieres, and a focus on a diverse array of international films, PYIFF reinforces its role as a key player in nurturing film culture and engaging audiences with rich, varied storytelling. This year’s lineup promises to engage both cinephiles and general audiences, enhancing the visibility of underrepresented voices in the film industry while honoring cinematic history through significant restorations.
As the festival draws near, anticipation builds for what promises to be a compelling celebration of cinema during this milestone year.
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