At the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival, the first Kering Women In Motion forum highlighted women’s growing impact on cinema. This event marked the arrival of Kering’s decade-long campaign supporting women in film to China.
The forum, titled “Kering Women In Motion Talk – In Her Flow,” was moderated by actor Andrew Liang. The panel included Lyu Yanting, the voice of the animated character Ne Zha; Brazilian actor-producer Luiza Mariani; Indian filmmaker Kiran Rao, a juror at this year’s Golden Goblet Awards; and Chinese actor-turned-producer Liang Jing.
Liang noted that 2025 marks 120 years of Chinese cinema and 130 years of global film history. Chen Guo, managing director of the Shanghai International Film and TV Events Center, praised female filmmakers for their “keen perception, vivid expression, and courage to break through” industry boundaries.
Cai Jinqing, president of Kering Greater China, celebrated the 10th anniversary of Women In Motion. Since 2015, the initiative has honored icons like Jane Fonda and Nicole Kidman, aiming to amplify women’s voices and creativity.
Panelists shared experiences from different countries. Liang Jing spoke about female directors entering male-dominated genres and previewed her upcoming film Dongji Rescue, which explores a woman’s awakening in a traditionally disadvantaged island culture. Kiran Rao highlighted the universal appeal of women’s stories through films like Dangal and Secret Superstar.
Lyu Yanting shared her experience as a female voice actor for a male animated character and called for more diverse, character-driven roles. Luiza Mariani discussed the rise of women directors in Brazil and encouraged young filmmakers to keep working hard.
The panel also addressed the challenge of balancing work and life, a question rarely asked of male directors. Lyu reflected, “As women, if we want to fully invest in work, we need to make many choices and have a lot of courage.”
Supported by the Shanghai International Film Festival, Kering, and consulates from France and Italy, the forum opened a new chapter in promoting women’s stories in China’s film market. Liang Jing urged filmmakers to “dare to break down walls,” and Kiran Rao encouraged them to “find your voice,” inspiring a hopeful future for women in cinema.
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