The festival had received more than 7,000 low-budget entries in the short film competition section from China and abroad, including the United States, Russia, Italy and Britain. The submissions mainly came from college students, who presented their fresh views on a variety of topics, such as philosophy, religion and modern life.

Allergic to the Truth, a Russian production, as well as six other foreign entries, earned various prizes in the competition.

"With short productions, a little push can go a long way," Zhou says.

Besides Shi's film, some 70 other productions won prizes in the categories of drama, documentary and animation.

"These short films, though restricted in budget, are so full of vitality," says Mai Lisi, another judge for the awards and a Chinese film director.

Young filmmakers today are able to present their ideas in a fashion that could lead to significant changes in China's film industry, Mai says.

Director Shi says: "In this age it is unlikely that a talent will go unnoticed. That said, we hope more channels will open up for us."

The winning short films of the festival will soon be available on Chinese streaming sites.