Zhang Zhong, a prominent Chinese director, helmed “Chang’an, Xi’an,” the first joint cinematic production between Iran and China. The screenplay was written by acclaimed Iranian director and screenwriter Narges Abyar. The film was screened in the Eastern Vista section of the 43rd Fajr International Film Festival. Moving across multiple generations, the story begins in the 1960s with aid groups reclaiming desert lands in Xinjiang and continues decades later as a new generation faces a cotton crisis. Through this narrative, the film explores endurance, memory, and hope, highlighting the lifelong dedication of individuals shaping the future. In this interview, Zhong discusses his experience at the festival, his collaboration with Iranian cinema, and the poetic elements Abyar brought to the story.
Please tell us about your experience in Iran and participating in the 43rd Fajr International Film Festival.
I truly enjoyed attending the Fajr Festival. The atmosphere was vibrant and dynamic, and I had the opportunity to meet and converse with many directors and filmmakers from various countries. I made new friends and discussed potential future collaborations. Compared to other festivals I have attended, FIFF is very professional and fair, with a unique sense of freedom that encourages open exchange. I really fell in love with this environment and hope to attend again.
Tell us about your collaboration with Iranian cinema, particularly with Ms. Narges Abyar. How did this collaboration come about, and what challenges did it involve?
Working with Ms. Narges Abyar was extraordinary. We connected through the Iranian embassy, and she shared several screenplays with me. I chose this one because it resonated deeply with me. Initially, as we came from different countries and cultures, there was a cultural gap, which brought some challenges during pre-production and production. Over time, however, everything improved, and we developed a strong mutual understanding. Cinema is truly an international gateway that brings people closer to each other’s cultures through storytelling.
This year’s festival slogan was “Poetic Cinema.” How well does “Chang’an, Xi’an” align with this theme, and what role did Ms. Abyar play in creating its poetic aspects?
Our film strives to be poetic and carries deep human sensibility. Ms. Abyar, being a writer with a strong literary background, wrote the screenplay beautifully and infused poetic elements effectively into the story. During filming, she skillfully blended Chinese culture with poetic sensibilities, resulting in a visually and emotionally rich outcome.
One of the main themes of the film is generational differences. How prevalent is this issue in Chinese society, and how was it addressed in the film?
Generational differences are a major social issue in China, as in many other countries. The younger generation often differs greatly from older generations in thinking, values, and lifestyle. These differences can make mutual understanding difficult and sometimes challenge society. In our film, this theme is clearly depicted, and we explored it with depth and sensitivity.
What is your final message to Iranian audiences and cinema enthusiasts?
I hope to see more collaborations between Iranian and Chinese cinema in the future. Cinema can serve as a strong bridge between Eastern cultures. I wish health and success to the people of Iran and am deeply grateful for the warm hospitality I experienced at the Fajr Festival.
