A short film spotlighting an ancient Yao ethnic tradition from Longmen County, Huizhou City, Guangdong Province, has been shortlisted for the Best Intangible Cultural Heritage Short Film at the 2025 Golden Sparrow Awards.
Titled Fire Dog Ceremonial Dance, the film stood out among more than 80 entries nationwide, earning recognition for its vivid storytelling and cultural depth. The Golden Sparrow Awards, launched by leading Chinese video platform New Studios, are regarded as a key benchmark for creative excellence in short-form video.
The film centers on the "Fire Dog Ceremonial Dance," a unique folk ritual practiced in Lantian Yao Township with a history of over 300 years. Listed among Guangdong's first batch of provincial intangible cultural heritage items, the tradition is performed annually during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Through sparks, movement, and ritual, it embodies local beliefs, communal spirit, and a deep connection to nature.
In recent years, Longmen has stepped up efforts to preserve and revitalize the tradition, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The short film marks a new approach—bringing heritage to life through visual storytelling and expanding its reach beyond the mountainous region where it originated.
From rural fields to a national creative stage, each show of the Fire Dog Ceremonial Dance reflects a broader journey of preservation and innovation. Local cultural and tourism authorities say they will continue to explore diverse, contemporary formats to share Longmen's rich heritage with wider audiences, offering a vivid window into the region's traditions and cultural charm.
Author | Liu Lingzhi
Photo & Video | Longmen Wenlv
