Windy Shao

windysjf@hotmail.com

SPANISH director Aitor Arenas said he might create short films inspired by a tour of Shenzhen that he and a group of international and domestic directors participated in over the weekend as part of an international short film festival.

When asked about potential inspirations for new films, Arenas responded, “I think there are too many possibilities because we were talking about that. When we arrived at this place, we saw so many people, so many bicycles, and so much movement, lights, and sounds — all these components are quite different from what we usually see in our countries."

He also expressed his interest in shooting a film in Shenzhen. "It’s very different from Europe. I feel interested in shooting a film here. It could have a significant impact if we develop a good story and shooting plan. The place is amazing, full of moments, lights, everything. I like it,” he said.

In regard to specific topics for the potential film, Arenas mentioned, “Not yet, but give me some days. I’m sure I will be thinking of a new topic. We definitely want to collaborate with different companies here or maybe involve something related to the students. Creating an exchange program with students could be interesting to see the main differences, not only for the students but also for ourselves.”

Shenzhen hosted the 14th China International New Media Short Film Festival from Feb. 19 to 23. As an important part of the festival’s schedule, local tourism authorities organized a tour that invited both domestic and foreign directors to explore the city’s cultural landmarks and tourism hotspots.

Known for technological innovation, Shenzhen showcased its multifaceted allure in humanities, ecology, and fashion during this cinematic extravaganza.

On Saturday, the directors embarked on their journey at Lianhua Hill Park, a significant site for Shenzhen locals and a gateway for introducing visitors to the city. They paid homage to the statue of the late Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping at the hill’s summit, which provided them with a picturesque view of the bustling Futian CBD’s architecture.

While strolling through the park, they were treated to a unique experience – Meituan’s drone-based food delivery service. Spanish directors Ane Inés Landeta and Lorea Lyons placed their orders via a mobile phone and received their meal box in just 20 minutes.

Witnessing this seamless fusion of technology with everyday life, Landeta said, “I think it’s really cool because we don’t have this in Spain. It’s quite an amusing sight.” Lyons added, “I would order all the time just to see the drone in action again. It’s really fun.”

During their next stop at the Ping An Finance Center tower, the directors marveled at the breathtaking 547.6-meter-high bird’s-eye view of Shenzhen. The panoramic scenery included the Shenzhen River, the city’s towering skyscrapers, and distant mountains, offering a unique perspective on urban development.

Recalling previous visits to Shenzhen, Arenas shared, “I first came to Shenzhen more than 10 years ago, and I witnessed its development. I remember taking pictures of the tower buildings in Futian in the past years. Now, seeing the entire skyline, I feel like I am part of the story, which is why I appreciate it even more.”

The directors were then treated to a helicopter tour courtesy of Shenzhen Eastern General Aviation Co. Ltd. (Heli-Eastern), a general aviation operator in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. During the 15-minute aerial adventure, they gazed upon the city’s skyline, green spaces, and waterways.

The helicopter tour allowed participants to uncover intricate details that are easily missed from the ground. Arenas remarked, “Seeing the city from the sky gives a whole new perspective. You notice many small details that may escape you while on the ground. It’s an enlightening experience that allows you to perceive a larger view of the city, offering me a fresh perspective on Shenzhen.”

The directors also explored the HQB Museum and the bustling Huaqiangbei electronics street before concluding their tour with a light show at the Civic Center Plaza.

Reflecting on the most captivating aspect of the tour, Arenas said, “The tour at the museum fascinated me. It demonstrated how this city evolved from nothing to its remarkable present state. The emphasis on technology and the subsequent development processes were truly engrossing. As a person intrigued by history and different narratives, witnessing this transformation was truly unique. While my usual focus is on ancient history, witnessing the more recent history of the city was compelling.”

“Understanding how the city was created is incredibly fascinating,” he told Shenzhen Daily.