On March 30, iQIYI, a pioneering online entertainment service at the forefront of innovation in China, unveiled its highly anticipated 2024 ‘Art Films’ series. This latest collection showcases acclaimed titles that have triumphed at prestigious film festivals worldwide, providing audiences with convenient access to renowned art cinema from the comfort of their homes.
Photo – courtesy of iQIYI ©
Established in 2015, the ‘Art Films’ series has carved a niche as China’s premier distribution channel and the largest online platform dedicated to streaming high-quality art films from around the globe. Among its esteemed selections are standout features like “Varda by Agnès,” a heartfelt homage to the legendary filmmaker Agnès Varda, and “Bohemian Rhapsody,” a vibrant biopic celebrating the iconic rock band Queen. The series has also showcased cinematic gems such as “The Widowed Witch” and “Kaili Blues,” both intricately interweaving narratives of Chinese rural life while earning accolades on the international stage.
Continuing its tradition of offering a curated lineup of premium and diverse films, the latest series introduces emotionally resonant titles like “Ripples of Life,” which premiered at the 74th Cannes Film Festival in 2021 and was featured in the ‘Focus’ section at the 26th Busan International Film Festival. Another standout entry is “Kong and Jigme,” recipient of the Best Small and Medium Budget Film award at the 36th Golden Rooster Awards, exploring poignant human connections across cultures. Additionally, “Night Falls,” winner of the Fei Mu Award for Best Film at the 6th Pingyao International Film Festival, invites viewers on a nostalgic journey delving into themes of identity and homecoming. Also included is “Off the Stage,” a compelling film honoured with the Best Actress award at the 36th Golden Rooster Awards.
Expanding the cinematic horizon, forthcoming releases on iQIYI Cloud Cinema include “Anatomy of a Fall,” a Palme d’Or-winning masterpiece from the 76th Cannes Film Festival, and “Kim’s Video,” a documentary tribute to the iconic New York City video store. This diverse selection not only celebrates the artistic depth of cinema beyond mainstream fare but also champions the rich cultural narratives that shape our global community.
In a bid to cultivate a community of discerning art film enthusiasts, iQIYI has allocated more promotional resources to spotlight the creators behind these cinematic masterpieces. Interactive features such as commemorative ticket stubs and exclusive insights from directors have been introduced to foster deeper engagement between the films and their audience.
Distributed via iQIYI Cloud Cinema, the ‘Art Films’ series not only promotes high-quality content but also provides benefits to content creators, contributing to the growth of the art film genre. From the ‘Action Master’ season earlier this year to the current ‘Art Films’ series, iQIYI remains committed to supporting exceptional filmmakers and their work through genre-based operations and the Cloud Cinema platform, making premium films accessible for home viewing.
