A series of films showing the development and achievement of the army are being shown at the China National Film Museum until August 5, to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the People's Liberation Army (PLA). The exhibition is a special event for the new museum, which officially opened in February following a year-long trial. The museum is currently the largest of its kind in the world, said museum head Liu Jianzhong, also a former general director of The State Administration of Radio Film and Television.

"For the film lovers and army genre-interested people, this is a good opportunity to appreciate both military-themed films and the museum itself,?he said.

Serving as a memorial to the birth of Chinese film more than 100 years ago, the museum covers the development of the country's film industry, exploring its latest technology and promoting film culture by hosting academic exchange seminars and research activities.

"Reviewing the Chinese army's development through the 80 years is compatible to the Chinese film industry's 100-year history,?Liu said. "Visitors can have a comprehensive view at this special venue.?

China National Film Museum has 20 exhibition halls. The museum's diverse collections encompass the best, most significant and important visual material demonstrating over 1,500 films.

The museum also has an extensive photographic collection (over 4,300 photographs) and introduces more than 450 film industry pioneers.

In addition, China National Film Museum has an IMAX cinema, a digital projection cinema and three 35mm cinemas. The IMAX cinema is equipped with world class technology - the best visual system in the world, the largest screen in Asia, with a six channel soundtrack system. It provides an ultimate experience in film enjoyment.

Displays explore more than a century of cinematic history, both within China and abroad. Exhibits are well executed and well labeled, at least for those who speak Chinese. English translations are provided for the brief introductions to each section.

A public competition is now being held to design a poster for the museum.

"The concept of the design should include reviewing the past and looking forward to the future of Chinese films development,?Liu said.

20 yuan (10 yuan for students). 9am-4:30pm,Tue-Sun. China National Film Museum, 9 Nanying Lu, Nangao Xiang, Chaoyang District. 6434-9100 (group/reservation), 6438-1229, 6434-6100. 朝阳区南皋乡南影路9号

(China Daily 08/02/2007 page6)