TAIWAN’S Golden Horse Awards, the Chinese-language film industry’s closest equivalent to the Oscars, was plunged into crisis after Beijing film authorities told film directors and stars to suspend attending the event in November.

“The China Film Administration has suspended mainland films and personnel from participating in the 56th Taipei Golden Horse Film Festival and Awards in 2019,” read a short statement that went out across Chinese state media yesterday.

The China Film Administration did not give any reason why it was boycotting the Golden Horse Awards. The executive committee of the Golden Horse Awards told Chinese media yesterday that they regret the ban.

“The ceremony has already entered the review stage and related events will be held as usual,” said the executive committee.

The Golden Horse Awards ceremony will be held in Taipei, Taiwan, on Nov. 23.

(SD-Agencies)