Core Insights - The ongoing Shanghai International Film Festival highlights the industry's focus on understanding and resonating with young audiences, emphasizing the importance of emotional connection in storytelling [4][5][6] - The film "逆风而行" (Against the Wind) addresses the collective memory of struggle and growth associated with the college entrance examination, aiming to evoke emotional resonance with viewers [5][6] - Directors are increasingly aware of the need to engage with audiences on a deeper level, with a shift from merely presenting stories to standing among viewers and reflecting their experiences [7][8] Industry Trends - The rise of short videos as a dominant form of entertainment poses a challenge for traditional film consumption, as audiences seek content that expresses their attitudes and emotions [7][8] - The concept of activating a "universe" around a film, where a single work can drive multiple revenue streams through merchandise and related products, is gaining traction in the industry [9][10] - The need for a shift in production mechanisms, including cost control and reducing reliance on box office revenue, is emphasized to adapt to changing market dynamics [10][11] IP Development - The potential of film IPs to generate significant revenue through merchandise and cross-industry collaborations is highlighted, with examples like "哪吒之魔童闹海" (Nezha) demonstrating the economic impact of successful IPs [11][12] - The importance of creating emotionally resonant characters and stories that can connect with audiences on a deeper level is seen as essential for developing powerful IPs [12][13]