Macau promotes film festival in Shanghai

Members of the IFFAM Organizing Committee and other guests give a toast at the reception

The organizing committee of the International Film Festival & Awards – Macau (IFFAM) hosted a cocktail reception in Shanghai on Monday to promote its next edition during the 20th Shanghai International Film Festival.

The Macau Government Tourism Office (MGTO) said in a press release that nearly 200 film companies and media agencies attended the cocktail reception at the Crowne Plaza Shanghai.

 At the reception, the committees of both the Macau and Shanghai festivals signed a cooperative agreement to develop a mechanism to identify promising films and investment projects, creating exchange opportunities for both cities’ film industries.

 “The agreement will bridge industry professionals from both sides and in turn encourage more film professionals to come to Macau,” said MGTO deputy director Cecilia Tse.

 Wang Ye, deputy general manager of Shanghai International Film & TV Festivals Co. Ltd., agreed. “We are aimed at establishing a system that bridges [the] industry insiders, films and venture capital of both places […] Macau is one of China’s most fascinating cities. That’s why Shanghai International Film Festival is pleased to partner up with IFFAM.”

 Lorna Tee, head of festival management, said this year’s artistic director would be Mike Goodridge. For the past five years, Goodridge has served as the chief executive officer of Protagonist Pictures, a film finance, production and sales company.

Tee also announced this year’s festival talent ambassador, Jeremy Renner. Renner received a “Best Actor” nomination at the 82nd Academy Awards for his critically acclaimed performance in “The Hurt Locker”, and is widely known for his role as “Hawkeye” in the Marvel blockbusters.

The 20th Shanghai International Film Festival will be held from June 17 to 26, while the second IFFAM will take place from December 8 to 14.