Malta has taken part in the annual EU Film Festival in China, held in Beijing and Chengdu between November 5 and December 3.

The festival, financed by the Delegation of the European Commission to China and supported by the Swedish Presidency, presented films from the 27 EU member states to Chinese audiences.

Malta presented the film Magdalene, written, directed and produced by Rebecca Cremona. Filmed at a location in Los Angeles and released earlier this year in Malta, the film was shown in theatres at the Ullens Center for Contemporary Art and the Italian Institute of Culture in Beijing. On both occasions theatres were filled to capacity.

Audiences were captivated by the film's screenplay of a chance meeting between a retired concert pianist confined to her home in California and a travelling salesman selling household items, the Department of Information said.

Prior to each performance of the film, a prize-giving competition was held among the audience, who were asked two questions about Malta. Winners were awarded a book about Malta's history and culture written in Chinese.

Overall attendance at the festival was described as "outstanding" by organisers and its conclusion was marked by a closing gala held at the Beijing branch of the Cervantes Institute of Spanish Culture, during which attendees were able to sample bottles of Maltese wine.

Participation in this event was organised by Malta's Embassy in Beijing.