The 15th Beijing International Film Festival has officially launched its largest VR films exhibition to date. Titled the “Boundless ∞ Immersive Section,” the showcase features 47 immersive works, including virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality formats.
Projects like “21-22 USA” and “21-22 China” by Thierry Loa, and “Tearless: When Ghosts Speak History” by Gina Kim, draw audiences into compelling alternate worlds. “Impulse: Playing with Reality” by May Abdalla and Barry Gene Murphy also takes center stage.
Chinese actor Huang Bo, serving as guest curator, described the exhibition as a gateway to cinematic exploration. He explained that the event includes two parts: “Boundless Cinema” presents international VR films, while “Immersive Space: Unbounded Imagery” features works by seasoned artists and emerging talents.
“I invite everyone to explore these VR films this week,” Huang said. “This space opens new cinematic dimensions.”
Cui Yan, director of the festival’s Operations Center, highlighted the showcase’s commitment to innovation. “We continue exploring cinema’s evolving future,” Cui said. “These VR films redefine storytelling and expand visual boundaries.”
Since 2018, the China Film Archive has supported immersive exhibitions. By 2023, the showcase had grown into an extended reality experience. This year, it officially became the Boundless ∞ Immersive Section.
Director Sun Xianghui of the China Film Archive praised the new phase for VR films. She emphasized cross-cultural collaboration, artistic dialogue, and advancing sensory experiences through immersive cinema.
Government support for VR films has also intensified. Huang Zhi of the Film Bureau stated that China will issue standards, strengthen infrastructure, and provide layered policy support for VR innovation.
“Technological growth must stay people-focused,” Huang added. “VR films should inspire and reflect real human experiences.”
Thursday’s events included an opening ceremony, an academic symposium, and an industry forum. Experts discussed policy, commercialization, and future directions for the VR industry.
Cinema chains across China pledged support for VR films by offering dedicated screening spaces. The festival also unveiled new titles like “The Three-Body Game: Fragments of Civilization.”
The Boundless ∞ Immersive Section runs until April 27, closing with a tech summit. As interest grows, VR films continue to shape the future of China’s cinematic landscape.
