Experts convened in Beijing on Saturday to discuss the making of a documentary film about China's largest ancient encyclopedia, "Siku Quanshu," literally "Complete Library in Four Sections."

A panel of experts take part in a brainstorming session for a documentary about "Siku Quanshu," Beijing, March 16, 2024. [Photo courtesy of Gansu Light of Field Film]

The participants all agreed on the main points of discussion and expressed their hope that more people will learn about the ancient encyclopedia through the film and feel the profound depth of Chinese culture.

"Siku Quanshu," the most extensive Chinese encyclopedia ever produced, was commissioned by the Qianlong Emperor in the 18th century and encompasses classic texts, history, philosophy and literature. It features over 3,460 books and 800 million characters, compiled by more than 360 scholars. The work represents the pinnacle of traditional Chinese cultural achievements, covering virtually every academic discipline.

The documentary's screenwriter, He Xiangjiu, stated that although there were many TV programs and specials on the epic book series, films on the subject were relatively rare. "We hope to tell the story of 'Siku Quanshu' once again in its entirety through the medium of film, and to tell the story of traditional Chinese culture well to the world," he said.

He Xiangjiu is a renowned writer and literature mogul who has also spent many years researching the ancient classic, and even took on the task of initiating a project to compile, supplement and revise a new version of "Siku Quanshu."

The mastermind and chief producer behind the documentary film, Xu Lingguang, stressed that "Siku Quanshu" is a treasure of Chinese culture and heritage, and should not be enshrined and kept away from the public.

"Many people are aware of this collection, but they don't understand its significant importance to traditional Chinese culture," he said. "Through the documentary 'Siku Quanshu Across Space and Time,' we aim to help more people understand history, appreciate Chinese culture and deepen their love for it."

Xu added that the film strives to satisfy viewers both in terms of their cultural needs and entertainment value. "To achieve this, we will explore various innovative approaches in our subsequent creative process to bring traditional culture to life," he said.

Selected facsimile copies of "Siku Quanshu" on exhibition in Lanzhou, Gansu province, May 15, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

Cultural experts, scholars and filmmakers engaged in a comprehensive dialogue, exchanging insights on the film's thematic direction, cultural depth, narrative structure, aesthetic approach, character portrayal, dramatic tension, musical score and production processes, as well as marketing and distribution strategies. The film will start production in April.

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