A Platform for International Screen Industry Cooperation
Following the success of its inaugural event in 2023, the Shanghai-London Screen Industry Forum held its highly anticipated second edition at BAFTA in London on 25 October 2024. Drawing over 200 professionals and emerging talents from the UK and Chinese screen industries, the event highlighted its growing importance as a hub for collaboration and innovation in the global screen sector.
Organised by Phoenix TV and hosted by the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism (Radio and Television), the forum was supported by the UK Department for Business and Trade. This year’s event expanded into a full-day programme featuring a global launch, insightful presentations, exclusive screenings, and thought-provoking panel discussions.
High-Profile Attendees and Industry Leadership
The forum attracted notable figures from both countries. Among the distinguished guests were LI Liyan, Minister Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in the UK; FANG Shizhong, President of Shanghai Media Group; LUO Yi, Deputy Director-General of Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism (Radio and Television); and Rupert Daniels, Director of Creative, Consumer, Sports & Education at the UK Department for Business and Trade. Adrian Wootton OBE, CEO at Film London, and Gary Millar, President of Liverpool China Partnership, also attended, alongside celebrated Shanghainese talents LU Yi and HUANG Yi.
Jasmine Pang, Director of European Affairs at Phoenix TV, served as the event chair, ensuring a seamless programme. Industry leaders such as Nick Percy, President of Global Markets at BBC Studios, Jane Turton, CEO of All3Media, and Richard Bradley, Co-founder of Lion TV, delivered engaging keynote speeches. Representing Shanghai were YANG Wenhong, President of Shanghai Broadcasting Film & Television Producers Association, and YANG Xiaopei, CEO of Xixi Pictures, adding valuable insights to the forum.
Major Announcements and Collaborative Panels
A highlight of the event was the joint announcement by BBC Studios, Phoenix TV, and Shanghai Media Group. They revealed that BBC’s acclaimed natural history series Asia will premiere on Dragon TV in China on 5 November. Nick Percy further announced the series’ simultaneous release on popular Chinese streaming platforms including bilibili, iQIYI, Tencent Video, and Youku, showcasing the strength of China-UK media collaborations.
Two engaging panel discussions explored the global reach of Chinese storytelling and examined the opportunities and challenges inherent in China-UK screen industry partnerships. UK panellists included André Renaud, Senior Vice President of Global Format Sales at BBC Studios; Daniel Pearl, Creative Director at Lion TV; Oliver Parker, Director of Johnny English Reborn and The Great Escaper; and Evan Leighton-Davis, Owner of Heatseeker Media and Takedown Pictures. Their insights underscored the value of cross-cultural storytelling and collaborative ventures.
Bridging Two Dynamic Cities
The Shanghai-London Screen Industry Forum continues to strengthen ties between these two vibrant cities, both recognised as global hubs for film and television. By fostering dialogue and innovation, the forum is establishing itself as a key platform for collaboration and cultural exchange in the global screen industry.
As this year’s forum demonstrated, the intersection of Chinese and British storytelling offers immense potential for fresh narratives and creative synergy. The event sets a solid foundation for future partnerships and growth in the global screen sector, ensuring that Shanghai and London remain at the forefront of cinematic and television innovation.
