A new documentary about the majestic snow leopard is set to be released in theaters on Aug. 4. Creating the film was both challenging and rewarding for the filmmakers, who worked in remote areas at altitudes of up to 4,700 meters.

Li Wei (left), the co-producer of the film and chairman of 1905.com, and director Xi Zhinong, interact with the audience at the premiere of wildlife documentary "Snow Leopards and Friends" in Beijing, July 30, 2023. [Photo courtesy of 1905 Pictures]

"Snow Leopards and Friends" is directed by renowned wildlife photographer Xi Zhinong, in collaboration with cinematographer Ke Xuanhui, along with three Tibetan nomadic herders turned amateur cinematographers. They filmed in a challenging high-altitude valley, setting up camps and seeking refuge in caves to track the snow leopards while being mindful of potential bear encounters. Through six years of hard work, they captured unprecedented close-up footage, while enduring hunger, extreme cold and life-threatening situations. Their dedication fills a significant gap in Chinese cinema's exploration of the snow leopard.

Li Wei, the co-producer of the film and chairwoman of 1905.com — the official website of China Movie Channel — expressed her deep admiration for the film. At the premiere in Beijing on July 30, she said: "This is the first snow leopard film shot entirely by Chinese cinematographers, making it an important addition to the diversity of Chinese cinema. As we tread the path of building an ecological civilization in our country, I hope this film can sow a seed of nature conservation in the hearts of the audience."

Director Xi Zhinong is passionate about the conservation of endangered wildlife. Capturing the snow leopard on film has always been his ultimate dream, and finally doing so is something he never previously could have imagined.

Recalling the moment he managed to film a snow leopard mother and cubs, Xi exclaimed, "Oh my God, I'm so lucky!" He emphasized China's biodiversity and the elusiveness of snow leopards, especially in their unique habitat. After setting up a wildlife hide near the den where the snow leopard gave birth, the team waited patiently. Witnessing the unexpected appearance of a mother and its cubs was an unforgettable experience for him.

The snow leopard, even rarer than the giant panda, inhabits high-altitude, snow-capped peaks. Its small population and elusive behavior pose significant challenges for wildlife filmmakers. In 1971, the first photograph of a wild snow leopard was captured, increasing its scientific research interest and elevating its status. Considered the "King of the Snowy Mountains," approximately 60% of the world's population resides in China. However, opportunities to witness these majestic creatures in the wild are extremely rare. Xi explains that the allure of snow leopards lies in their mystery and power, also symbolizing the pinnacle of wildlife filmmaking.

Besides snow leopards, the film also features primitive and wild natural elements through the perspective of nomadic cinematographers. From the vibrant wildlife of the plateau to the overwhelming visual scenery, it delivers a powerful emotional impact. Other animals, such as yaks, Tibetan foxes, pikas, bharals, bearded vultures and bar-headed geese, also make appearances, establishing a complex community alongside the snow leopards as their "friends." Meanwhile, the local Tibetan nomads, who live in the mountainous region, provide the best protection for the snow leopards.

A poster for "Snow Leopards and Friends." [Image courtesy of 1905 Pictures]

This year marks Xi Zhinong's 40th year working with wildlife, during which he has devoted himself to wildlife photography and conservation in China, driven by his belief in the power of images to advocate for nature preservation. "Initially, I couldn't bear witnessing film crews capturing birds as specimens, restraining them with ropes. I wanted to learn photography to capture birds flying freely," he said.

The photographer has brought lesser-known species like the Yunnan snub-nosed monkey to public attention, helping to protect the pristine forests they inhabit. He was also the first to report on the endangered status of Tibetan antelopes, raising awareness and promoting their conservation. Additionally, he pioneered China's first wildlife photography training camp, building a professional team focused on the use of images to protect nature. During the filming of "Snow Leopards and Friends," Xi established just such a camp for local nomadic herders.

"I've dedicated the last 40 years to capturing and presenting wildlife in China and helped more people learn photography to join us in presenting more rare Chinese wildlife to the public through our lenses, raising awareness and inspiring action to protect nature," Xi said. "I've been working to ensure that those wild animals remain visible not just to our own people but also to the world. My goal is for everyone to appreciate the beauty of the land of China."

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