On October 15th, coinciding with the significant milestone of the 120th anniversary of Chinese cinema, the 18th China International Children's Film Festival (CICFF) was inaugurated in Jinan, east China's Shandong province.

The opening ceremony [Photo by the 18th CICFF Organizing Committee]

　　Under the theme "Nurturing Dreams, Safeguarding the Light of Peace", the festival is jointly hosted by the China Children's Film Association, the China National Children's Center, the China Film Foundation, and the Movie Channel. It serves not only as a premier platform for dialogue and exchange among global children's filmmakers but also as a significant opportunity for Jinan to showcase its cultural vibrancy to the world.

Outstanding youth representatives walk the red carpet. [Photo by the 18th CICFF Organizing Committee]

　　At the opening ceremony, a five-minute short film titled Childhood at the Cinema was screened, tracing the 120-year journey of Chinese cinema from its inception to its flourishing present through cinematic imagery. This was followed by segments dedicated to film recommendations and a tribute to the legacy of past works. Members of the International Selection Committee shared their insights on children's cinema, fostering a multilingual exchange where diverse educational philosophies and artistic perspectives converged, thereby enriching the festival's international dimension.

　　Held in Jinan for the second consecutive year, CICFF not only reaffirms the cultural appeal of the "Spring City" but also deepens the integration of its historic charm with a modern, child-friendly ethos. Through this cinematic bridge, Jinan is extending the warmth and richness of its urban culture to children and youth worldwide.