Film offers a unique perspective to understand a city. In the interplay of light and shadow, Qingdao's distinct urban beauty unfolds, and its rich cultural memory takes form. With a history of blending Eastern and Western influences, Qingdao has deep ties with China's film industry. Its natural scenery and historical architecture have served as vibrant backdrops for filmmakers over the past century, embedding cinema into the city's cultural fabric.

The 1907 Movie Club continues to preserve Qingdao's cinematic legacy. [Photo/WeChat account: qdweishinan]

Shinan's connection with film dates back to the early 1900s. The Prince Hotel (now Zhanqiao Prince Hotel) on Taiping Road and the Sailors' Club (now the 1907 Movie Club) at 17 Hubei Road are key landmarks. In 1900, the Prince Hotel opened a music hall for screening foreign films, among the first in China. Built in 1899, the Sailors' Club became the earliest surviving commercial cinema, screening silent films and nurturing Qingdao's first generation of moviegoers. Today, the 1907 Movie Club continues to capture the evolving story of the city.

In the 1930s, China's film industry entered its golden age. The China Cinema at 97 Zhongshan Road, once the Shandong Grand Theater, was founded by pioneers like Zhang Shichuan, marking a new era for Chinese-owned cinemas.

Shinan's stunning landscapes and historical charm have appeared in countless films, from Down-trodden Peach Blossom to A Little Red Flower. Today, Shinan is embracing its cinematic heritage, blending natural beauty, history, and innovation to build a bright future for "Cinematic Shinan".