CHEN Tao：The Cinematic Practice of Chinese Modernization

As a literary and artistic medium with the greatest capacity for mass communication and the most powerful reflection of the contemporary era, film and television art has long become deeply embedded in every development scene of Chinese modernization. It has become an important window for recording the changes of the times, conveying the Chinese spirit and demonstrating the strength of development. Never confined to a single theme, it adopts diverse forms to present the vivid practices and spiritual connotation of Chinese modernization in an all-round and multi-dimensional manner.

The practice of Chinese modernization through the lens of film and television is a cultural endeavor defined by "panoramic documentation, innovative expression, and nationwide participation". At its heart lies the principle of "using light and shadow to mirror the era and art to empower development," constructing an artistic and cultural tableau of Chinese modernization across multiple dimensions.

First, red-themed film and television works serve as the spiritual foundation of the visual practice of Chinese modernization. From the classic red films of the revolutionary era to brand-new productions in the new era, red imagery has always carried national memories and spiritual aspirations. Works such as The Age of Awakening, The Battle at Lake Changjin and Dead to Rights not only revisit revolutionary history, but also trace the spiritual origin of Chinese modernization. They enshrine the spirit of perseverance and dedication as a spiritual bond that unites the nation, echoing the essential requirement of Chinese modernization for the coordinated development of material civilization and spiritual civilization.

Second, realistic dramas act as a real-time mirror of the achievements in the advancement of Chinese modernization. In recent years, a host of realistic dramas ranging from A Lifelong Journey and Minning Town to Wild Bloom and Like A Flowing River have focused on key fields of Chinese modernization, including poverty alleviation, urban and rural development, scientific and technological innovation, and improvement of people’s livelihood. By depicting the life trajectories of ordinary people, these works showcase the magnificent course of national development, giving tangible visual expression to the people-centered essence of Chinese modernization.

Third, digital technology-driven innovations in film and television imagery offer vivid proof of China's pursuit of "technological self-reliance and self-strengthening". With the development of digital technologies such as AIGC image generation and the metaverse, visual and cinematic practice is undergoing all-round upgrading. From the industrialization of digital films and public participation on short-video platforms to one-click content creation via AIGC, digital imagery has not only broadened the boundaries of artistic expression, but also enabled the achievements and cultural charm of Chinese modernization to be communicated more efficiently and widely.

Furthermore, the international dissemination of cinematic practices serves as an important bridge for Chinese modernization to "go global". In recent years, Chinese film and television works have continued to go global. Whether it is the overseas dissemination of red classics, or the international popularity of realistic themes and ancient costume IPs, they all use visual imagery as a medium to tell Chinese stories and convey Chinese values to the world. Through film and television, the world can understand the unique connotations of Chinese modernization. This fully embodies the distinctive feature of Chinese modernization of having a global vision and offers a vivid demonstration of cultural confidence.

Looking back, film and television imagery has recorded every leap forward of Chinese modernization. Looking ahead, it will further fuel the continued advancement of Chinese modernization. We should encourage the development of cinematic arts through upholding fundamental principles and forging new innovations. Diverse visual works shall not only serve as a spiritual carrier for chronicling the times and inspiring the people, but also act as an important force to demonstrate the unique strengths of Chinese modernization and spread Chinese culture. In doing so, they will inject enduring artistic and cultural momentum into building a great modern country and advancing the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.