On May 18, the 12th International Micro-Film Festival for University Students opened in Beijing under the theme “New Mission, High Quality, Creating the Future.” This year’s festival drew enthusiastic participation from university students worldwide, receiving over 7,000 entries from 465 countries and regions—an all-time high in both quality and quantity of submissions. Among the diverse works showcased, Chaoshan Memories by students from the School of Journalism and Communication at South China University of Technology stood out, earning the Third Prize in the “UAV Aerial Photography Unit.”
A Novel Aerial Perspective
Guided by Associate Professor Chen Xi and Lecturer Zheng Zhong, and created by students Li Jiarun, Chen Zhuo, and Yu Rong, Chaoshan Memories employs drone (UAV) footage to capture the interplay between the leisurely and vibrant lifestyles found in the Chaoshan region of Guangdong Province. The film offers a glimpse into Chaoshan’s cultural depth and unique regional identity.
Viewers are invited to experience the century-old commercial port’s rich history, explore the stone archways steeped in local admiration, and cross the Guangji Bridge—an ancient transportation link between Fujian and Guangdong. The work further highlights Gongfu Tea culture and the art of Hand-Pulled Teapots, which together paint a vivid portrait of Chaoshan’s cultural heritage. By integrating UAV aerial photography, the film transitions seamlessly between soaring over the Bay Bridge and delving into traditional Chaoshan life, allowing viewers to appreciate the region’s cultural essence and modern vitality.
According to Li Jiarun, the team aimed to present Chaoshan’s cultural atmosphere and natural beauty through a fresh, innovative perspective. Each member took an active role in planning, filming, and editing, while the instructors provided detailed, professional guidance—especially in clarifying the film’s narrative logic and explaining the historical significance of specific landmarks, thus enhancing the overall impact of the piece.
A Platform for Creativity and Cultural Exchange
The International Micro-Film Festival for University Students serves not only as a stage for aspiring filmmakers to showcase their talents and ambitions, but also as a robust bridge for advancing film education in universities and fostering international cultural exchange. Looking ahead, students at the School of Journalism and Communication will continue to use their lenses to chronicle everyday life and convey aspirations, further promoting the creative production and practice of micro-films.
