Tuesday saw the opening of the 28th Hong Kong International Film Festival. The sixteen-day gala attracted nearly 300 films as well as hundreds of directors and film stars from around the globe.

As the event's Honorary Ambassador, local superstar Leon Lai acted as master of ceremonies for the 28th Hong Kong International Film Festival. Chinese screen stars including Zhou Xun were also present. She expressed confidence in Hong Kong's film industry, which had seen a downturn in recent years.

Actress Zhou Xun said "Most of us have grown up watching Hong Kong films. Though the industry had been in a slump, it has become more active in the past two years. I 'm excited about that. I hope there will be more activities like this festival."

Chinese mainland director Li Shaohong's Baober in Love, and Hong Kong director Ann Hui's Jade Goddess of Mercy opened the festival. The event will run through April 21.

(CCTV.com April 13, 2004)