Lingnan, to some extent,“transcends”the concept of“locality”and is more closely“bound”to ethnicity, nation, and the world. As a“mirror”of social reality, Lingnan cinema not only undertakes the visual documentation of the Lingnan region but also demonstrates image construction that“transcends”locality. The development of Lingnan cinema has experienced three periods: conscious exploration, the studio era, and industrialization, each presenting different characteristics. In its early phase, realism-themed films promoted social transformation; during the studio era, diverse film genres emerged, breaking regional limitations; and in the industrialization phase, regional cooperation was strengthened, leading to a shift in production models. By
leveraging shared cultural symbols, Lingnan cinema has established an open and inclusive mechanism for cultural exchange, constructing a sense of national identity while narrating Chinese stories. Under the national strategy of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Lingnan cinema has been entrusted with a new mission, serving as a vital medium for expressing national confidence and promoting Chinese culture globally.
