Beijing intl movie gala opens with sea of stars

The 15th Beijing International Film Festival kicked off in the capital's Huairou district on Friday night. The rain didn't dampen the enthusiasm of hundreds of stars and industry insiders, who shone brightly on the red carpet.

As proof of its growing global influence, this year's edition received 1,794 submissions from 103 countries and regions, an 18.9 percent increase from the 1,509 entries last year. A total of 10 Tiantan Awards — the festival's top honor — will be selected from 15 nominated films, including three Chinese titles.

The festival, which is one of the most influential cinematic events in China, will run until April 26.