UK director James Strong wins Best TV Drama Director at the Golden Panda Awards in Chengdu.
The second Golden Panda Awards closed with a star-studded gala in Chengdu on September 13. Twenty-seven prizes were handed out across film, TV, documentary, and animation, according to CNS.
UK Winner in TV Drama
British director James Strong took home Best Director in the TV Drama category for Mr Bates vs the Post Office. The drama, based on a major UK scandal, resonated strongly with audiences at home and abroad.
This year’s awards drew 5,343 entries from 126 countries and regions. Overseas submissions made up more than 70 per cent, underlining the festival’s international scope.
Jury president, Chinese filmmaker Chen Kaige said the goal was not to showcase one culture, but to build a bridge between many. “The Golden Panda Awards make cultural exchange real and tangible,” he told the audience.
Spotlight on Animation
Chinese blockbuster Ne Zha 2 won Best Animated Feature, while Chang’an received the Best Visual Effects Award. Brazil’s Taina and the Amazon’s Guardians claimed the prize for Best Animated Character.
Animation jury chair Cai Zhijun said the medium speaks to all generations: “With a few simple symbols and genuine emotion, animation awakens shared human memories.”
Highlights from Film and Documentary
In the documentary section, Chinese director Gao Song won Best Director for My Hometown Across The Ocean. Norway’s A New Kind of Wilderness earned Best Documentary.
In film, Italy’s There Is Still Tomorrow was named Best Picture. Chinese actor Zhu Yilong received Best Actor for Off the Stage.
Cinema as Connection
Film jury president Huang Jianxin reminded the audience that 2025 marks 130 years of world cinema and 120 years of Chinese cinema. He said movies must do more than capture an era—they must connect with people.
If you liked this article, why not read: Chinese actress Xin Zhilei wins Best Actress at Venice Film Festival.
