SSTM Explores New Paths for Collaborative Development of Science Popularization Audiovisual Works; Science Popularization Films Debut at SIFF for the First Time

The Science Audiovisual Sub-forum of the 5th Shanghai Science Communication Conference was held at the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum (SSTM) on May 23. Centered on the theme “Symbiosis of Visions: Collaborative Networks and Supply-Oriented Ecosystems for Science Popularization Audiovisual Works,” the sub-forum zeroed in on three core development directions: international co-production, global export of original domestic content, and alliance of science venues. It gathered representatives from international industry institutions, science popularization venues nationwide, film production and distribution enterprises, as well as academic experts to jointly explore pathways for the high-quality development of China’s science popularization audiovisual industry. Guided by the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Science and Technology (SMCST) and the Shanghai Film Bureau, hosted by SSTM, the event also received support from the Giant Screen Cinema Association (GSCA) and CINITY science.

The sub-forum welcomed a GSCA delegation on-site, who shared cutting-edge insights into the public value and industrial mechanisms of science popularization audiovisual works across Europe and the United States, offering international experience and industry references for the advancement of China’s science popularization audiovisual sector.

During the keynote session, Ni Minjing, Director of SSTM, delivered a keynote speech titled Science Audiovisual Works as a New Form of Science Communication: Practices and Reflections on Development Pathways at SSTM. Drawing on Shanghai’s existing foundation, he put forward a development vision for science popularization audiovisual works to shift from “single-venue independent projects” to “collaborative growth.” He stressed a balanced development strategy that prioritizes both introducing overseas resources and going global.

Patty Collins, Vice President of GSCA, explored the public value and industrial operation mechanisms of science popularization audiovisual works. She noted that such audiovisual productions have evolved into a vital cultural medium linking the public to science. Delivering immersive audiovisual experiences, they help audiences grasp complex scientific topics and exert far-reaching influence on public perception, cultural imagination, and social engagement.
Mike Lutz, Member of the GSCA Executive Committee and Co-Chair of its Industry Leadership Committee, analyzed how LED cinema technology shapes the giant-screen cinema ecosystem and future projection models from the perspective of global industrial development.

Huang Hong, Deputy Director of the SMCST; Xue Wei, Deputy Director of SSTM; and Chen Guo, Director of the Shanghai International Film Festival Center, jointly launched the 28^th Shanghai International Film Festival Technology Creation and Fabrication Unit Special Screening of Science Popularization Films. During the 28^th SIFF, the SSTM Giant Screen Theater will run a focused screening program between June 12 and 21, presenting the latest domestic and overseas science popularization documentaries and science-themed audiovisual works. This initiative aims to integrate science popularization audiovisual productions into a broader, more inclusive public film communication ecosystem.