Chinese director Zhang Yimou received the French Literature and Art Award at the French Embassy in Beijing on Friday.

 

It was the second time that Zhang received the award from the French Government.

 

French film star Jean Reno was present at the ceremony. Reno arrived in Beijing the day before to kick off the third French Film Festival in China.

 

The six-day annual festival in Shanghai and Chengdu runs through Tuesday, with closing ceremonies in Shanghai.

 

A delegation led by Reno attended the opening at the Peace Hotel, bringing Beijing fans the long-anticipated film L'Empire des Loups.

 

Seven films, including The Child, winner of the prestigious Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival last year, are being shown with Chinese subtitles.

 

 

 

(Shenzhen Daily February 13, 2006)