Shanghai Film Festival's SIFF YOUNG Incubator Unveils Nine Rising Filmmakers for 2026

The SIFF YOUNG initiative, a dedicated program for identifying and nurturing new filmmaking talent, proudly introduced its 2026 cohort. This year's selection showcases nine exceptional individuals across directing, producing, and screenwriting disciplines. The program emphasizes both established industry practitioners and bold, emerging voices, underscoring its commitment to fostering diverse and professional cinematic artistry.

Shanghai International Film Festival Celebrates New Talent with SIFF YOUNG 2026 Announcement

On June 15, 2026, on the vibrant sidelines of the 28th Shanghai International Film Festival, a momentous ceremony unfolded to honor the newest class of the SIFF YOUNG incubator. This esteemed program, driven by the Shanghai Film Bureau, revealed its nine selected filmmakers who represent the future of cinematic storytelling. The executive vice minister of the Publicity Department of the Shanghai Municipal Committee of CPC and director general of the Shanghai Film Bureau, Fang Shizhong, personally presented certificates to the distinguished honorees, marking a significant milestone in their careers.

The selection process was rigorous, drawing nominations from thirteen influential industry recommenders and seventeen prominent companies, including powerhouses like iQIYI and CMC Pictures. Renowned filmmakers such as Jia Zhangke and Jojo Hui also contributed their expertise to the nomination pool. The final jury, an assembly of industry luminaries, was led by director Wen Muye, a celebrated alumnus of the 2023 SIFF YOUNG program. His panel included director-screenwriter Dong Runnian, producer Liang Lin, Light Chaser Animation Studio president Yu Zhou, and screenwriter You Xiaoying, who was among the first screenwriters recognized by the initiative.

Wen Muye lauded the chosen creators, remarking on their exceptional talent and diverse stylistic approaches. He highlighted their blend of strong professionalism with independent thought, noting the cohort includes both experienced practitioners and innovative new voices, which perfectly embodies the program's selection principles of professionalism and diversity.

Among the distinguished directors are Bai Xue, acclaimed for "The Crossing," whose new work "This Is My Name" is nearing completion. Su Biao, a prolific screenwriter transitioning to directing, has three films in post-production. Teng Congcong, known for "Send Me to the Clouds," is developing "The Stake of Your Life." Wang Tong, whose realist drama "Wild Nights, Tamed Beasts" garnered significant awards at last year's SIFF Golden Goblet Awards, is currently developing "Yin Ni Zhe." Xu Lei, a master of low-budget commercial genre films, is working on "The Peacemaker" and "Village Life."

In the realm of producing, Hu Jing, with credits such as "The Cord of Life" and "Decoded," has two projects in development, including "Sherlock of China." Titi received international recognition when her film "The Sun Rises on Us All" competed at the Venice Film Festival, where its lead actress, Xin Zhilei, won the Volpi Cup. Titi's latest work, "Make Zhonghe Great Again," was showcased at this year's SIFF Gala Night. Xie Haochi, who co-produced "Make Zhonghe Great Again" and "This Is My Time," also presented his work at the Gala Night as part of the China Movie Blockbuster New Voices showcase.

Screenwriter Zhou Yunhai, whose accomplishments include "Pegasus 3," was commended by the jury for his sophisticated narrative instincts and keen understanding of commercial demands. Zhou expressed his gratitude, seeing the selection as both an acknowledgment of his past efforts and an inspiration for future endeavors.

Now in its fifth year since its inception in 2021, the SIFF YOUNG program has successfully supported 29 filmmakers across its five editions, including notable alumni such as Derek Tsang ("Better Days"), Han Shuai ("She Has No Name"), and Shao Yihui ("Herstory").

The SIFF YOUNG incubator plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of Chinese cinema by identifying and empowering the next generation of filmmakers. This year's diverse cohort, comprising directors, producers, and screenwriters, demonstrates the program's dedication to nurturing varied artistic expressions and commercial viability. By providing a platform for emerging talents to develop their projects, SIFF YOUNG ensures a dynamic and innovative landscape for film, enriching global cinema with fresh perspectives and compelling narratives. The ongoing success of its alumni further solidifies its position as a vital force in the industry.