A Little Guide to the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival

🌟It's that time of year again for film enthusiasts! From scheduling screenings and snagging tickets to theater-hopping, ticket exchanges, and check-ins during the festival, every day is packed with excitement as we immerse ourselves in this cinematic feast. Having attended the festival for many years, each edition brings its own rewards, surprises, and regrets. Here are some personal tips to share: 🎞️Film Selection: With over 400 films screening at the festival, there will inevitably be ones you wish you could see but can't. How to choose? My approach: 1️⃣ Restored classics, especially 4K versions—perfect for reliving timeless stories; 2️⃣ International films unlikely to get regular releases—a great window to the world; 3️⃣ New releases, particularly world/Asian premieres or screenings with Q&A sessions. 🔜Scheduling: Prioritize screenings at the same venue or easily accessible locations. For out-of-town attendees, note that suburban theaters may require longer travel times. 🛎️Ticket Pickup: Tickets can only be collected at the screening venue. Arrive early to avoid pre-show queues, but keep your ticket folder secure—there have been cases of lost folders mid-screening. 🔎Viewing Etiquette: Respect cinema etiquette: avoid late arrivals/early exits, keep conversations hushed, minimize phone use, and never film the screen. ✨Check-in Perks: This year, various theaters offer exclusive activities with souvenirs like fridge magnets and ticket stubs. 💎Shanghai Peace Cinema: Postcards and stubs for 10 selected films. 💎Shanghai Film Art Center (SHO): Limited-edition stamps; lottery draw with 3 stubs. 💎CMG Media Cinema: Keychain for 2 stubs. 💎Yihai & Lyceum Theatres: Badge for 2 tickets, folder for 3 tickets, plus special stubs per screening. 💎Bai Theater Line: Transparent cards for 2 tickets. Even more surprises come from fan-made freebies—discover them yourself! Wishing all film lovers a wonderful ten-day festival.