Shanghai film festival postponed due to coronavirus

The 23rd edition of the Shanghai International Film Festival, China's oldest and most prestigious cinema event, has been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The event’s organizers announced on Wednesday that the 23rd edition of the festival, originally scheduled for June 13-23, would be held later.

"Due to the impact of the novel coronavirus epidemic, the organizing committee of the Shanghai International Film Festival has decided to postpone," the committee said, stressing that the event would be delayed but not cancelled completely.

"Despite the impact of the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, preparations for 23rd Shanghai International Film Festival have progressed steadily thanks to the generous support and deep engagement of the entire film community at home and abroad. We are deeply grateful for what you've done for us, and we hereby apologize for any inconveniences caused by the postponement," it added.

The committee said the new dates for the upcoming edition “will be announced as soon as possible”.

The novel coronavirus has so far infected more than five million people across the world and killed more than 329,700.

The pandemic forced the cancellation or postponement of many cultural events worldwide.

SQ/MG