The movie, Nuan, by Chinese director Huo Jianqi has beaten 14 others to take home the Tokyo Grand Prix at the Japanese capital's international film festival. Veteran Japanese actor Teruyuki Kagawa also snatched up the festival's Best Actor award for his performance in the movie. The accolades follow similar success for the film at China's Golden Rooster Award.

Adapted from a work by Chinese author Mo Yan, Nuan is the only Chinese film nominated this year at the Tokyo festival. Told in a tranquil and gentle style, the film is a moving love story about Jin He who goes back to his hometown after spending 10 years in Beijing. There he meets his ex-girlfriend Nuan, and rekindles his love for her. But, despite all his efforts, it seems that the passion of the past cannot be re-ignited.

Established in 1985, the Tokyo International Film Festival has showcased many films from abroad and attracted a number of Hollywood celebrities.

The festival has been held each year since 1991 and takes place mainly at the Bunkamura arts center in Tokyo's Shibuya entertainment district.

(CCTV.com November 11, 2003)