Chinese films set for Liverpool showcase

Liverpool, Europe's newly created city of culutre, is set to showcase a trio of critically acclaimed films about Chinese culture for free as part of Black History Month.

Earlier today, Liverpool City Council in association with BAFTA North launched Images of China, at the Odeon Cinema, London Road, Liverpool.

Councillor Warren Bradley, Executive Member for Leisure and Culture, said that as Liverpool had a "vibrant Chinese community" it was only fitting that the city celebrated all its cultures.

He added: "It’s fantastic to see that people will be able to experience this festival for free. I hope it whets people’s appetites to learn more about the world as we progress towards 2008.’’

Maureen Sinclair, BAFTA North Director, said: “This is an innovative film festival for anyone wishing to enjoy a completely different approach to story telling and film making. We’re especially honoured to have Feng Xiaogang to give his own views on cinema and China.’’

At 7.30pm tonight a screening of award winning feature film ‘A Sigh’ will take place, with an introduction by the film’s acclaimed director Feng Xiaogang.

The director, along with the Chinese delegation and Chinese Consulate, arrived in Liverpool yesterday and will be in the city for two days.

Prior to the first screening the delegation will be given a tour of Liverpool’s new FACT centre before witnessing the unveiling of the city’s latest sculpture – Metroscopes in Ropewalks Square.

On Friday, the Odeon will screen ’Twenty Five Kids and One Dad' at 6.30pm and a children’s film 'I am a Fish' at 1pm. All are free to the public.

(gmcg)