Educating the young
After dedicating decades to promoting Chinese cinema in Europe, Mueller has recently shifted his focus to China, where he aims to uncover and support emerging talent.
In 2015, he became the chief adviser and curator for the official selection at the Beijing International Film Festival, and in 2016, he co-founded the Pingyao International Film Festival with Jia.
Earlier this year, he also played a key role as the artistic director for the Asia-Europe Youth Film Exhibition in Macao.
Beyond his involvement in festivals, Mueller has contributed to education in China, personally guiding the next generation of Chinese filmmakers.
In 2019, he established the Marco Mueller Film Art Research Center at Liaoning University, and starting in 2021, he became artistic director at the Film Art Research Center of Shanghai University, where he teaches film production.
He has independently or collaboratively produced 14 films, many of which have received international acclaim and awards, including recognition at the Oscars, Cannes, and the Venice International Film Festival.
Young directors often reach out to him, and Mueller warmly welcomes such interaction in the hopes of sharing the experience he has gained from organizing film festivals.
"I engage in extensive discussions with directors and producers on topics such as international promotion, choosing overseas sales companies, and selecting suitable festivals for their films," he says.
Mueller highlights the shortage of talent in Chinese film translation. Due to cultural differences, the demand for subtitles has become more challenging.
He emphasizes the need to train subtitling experts, and to prioritize the restoration of old films. "The diversity and richness of Chinese film history is immense," he adds.
Mueller's extensive efforts in promoting Chinese cinema have earned him widespread recognition in China. In 2010, he received the China-Italy Friendship Contribution Award from the State Council of China for outstanding contributions to Chinese film. Last year, he was honored with the Magnolia Memorial Award, a recognition given by the Shanghai municipal government to notable foreign individuals who have contributed to the city's development.
Though 70, Mueller has no plans to retire, and says he is inspired by the founder of the Huilin Award, 90-year-old Huang Huilin, who continues to work. He views such dedication as an ideal, and hopes to witness the continued success of new generations of directors.
Still watching films, he says discovering the new generation is his calling.
"I believe that Chinese cinema will continue to excite, captivate, and surprise us with its richness and diversity," he says.
