‘Always’ and ‘Riverstone’ Win Major Awards at Singapore Film Festival, Enhancing Travel and Tourism Through Cinema’s Global Influence on Cultural Destinations: Check It Out Now

Published on December 7, 2025

The Singapore International Film Festival (SGIFF) has long been one of Asia’s most anticipated events, showcasing the diverse and dynamic nature of global cinema. This year, two standout films, Chen Deming’s “Always” and Lalith Rathnayake’s “Riverstone,” claimed the top honors, marking a milestone in the festival’s history. As the world of cinema continues to evolve with an increasing number of international co-productions, these wins reflect not just artistic achievement but also the growing significance of cinema tourism in shaping travel and cultural exploration.

In the fast-developing realm of film tourism, films like “Always” and “Riverstone” are becoming pivotal in attracting tourists to the regions where they are set, offering a unique opportunity to combine cultural exploration with cinematic experiences. The recognition of these films at SGIFF reflects a broader trend where international film festivals are becoming key players in promoting cultural tourism and destination marketing.

“Always”: A Landmark Co-Production Celebrating Global Cinema

“Always,” directed by Chen Deming, emerged as a top winner at SGIFF, receiving the prestigious Best Asian Feature Film Award. The film, a co-production between the U.S., France, China, and Taiwan, highlights the increasingly global nature of Asian cinema. This achievement underscores how film productions are no longer confined to regional markets; rather, they are tapping into global audiences and showcasing diverse cultures to the world.

Set against the backdrop of several international cities, “Always” tells a poignant story that resonates with global audiences. This cross-cultural narrative is not only a triumph in filmmaking but also a powerful marketing tool for the countries involved. Films like “Always” serve as cultural bridges, inviting tourists to visit locations featured in the film. As the world of cinema embraces more international collaborations, the influence of films like “Always” on travel and tourism is becoming undeniable. The film’s recognition at SGIFF has the potential to inspire travel enthusiasts to explore the international destinations portrayed, opening doors for tourism in Taiwan, China, and France, particularly in the cinematic locales highlighted in the story.

Film tourism, especially when backed by major international film festivals like SGIFF, can create an influx of visitors eager to experience the locations that have captivated them on screen. This rise in cultural tourism is reflective of a larger trend where cinema is no longer just entertainment but a catalyst for destination promotion. The success of films such as “Always” provides significant opportunities for countries and cities to engage in targeted tourism campaigns, encouraging travelers to explore both the local culture and the scenic landscapes that define the film’s setting.

“Riverstone”: A Sri Lankan Masterpiece and Its Growing Tourism Impact

Meanwhile, Lalith Rathnayake’s “Riverstone” also emerged as a major winner at SGIFF, claiming the Best Director award and Best Performance honors for its lead actor. This success, following accolades from other international festivals such as the Shanghai International Film Festival, highlights the growing prominence of Sri Lankan cinema on the global stage. Rathnayake’s portrayal of Sri Lanka’s rural life, combined with a stunning visual narrative, is not only a triumph for Sri Lankan filmmaking but also an excellent example of how national cinema can attract global attention.

The film’s success is a testament to how Sri Lanka’s rich culture and natural beauty are being showcased on the world stage. As the film’s recognition spreads, so too will interest in its filming locations. For Sri Lanka, this means more than just a film festival win – it represents a growing opportunity for tourism based on its cinematic landscapes. Tourists, inspired by the breathtaking views of Sri Lanka’s mountains, rivers, and rural villages featured in “Riverstone,” are likely to explore these locations first-hand, contributing to the development of cultural tourism.

The concept of film tourism is growing in Sri Lanka, where locations made famous by films like “Riverstone” serve as powerful tools for the nation’s tourism sector. As the global audience for Sri Lankan films expands, so too does the potential for travel to the idyllic settings that have become synonymous with Sri Lankan storytelling. From exploring the mountainous landscapes to visiting the serene villages depicted in the film, the connection between the cinematic experience and tourist destinations is becoming more intertwined. As films like “Riverstone” inspire more visitors to discover the beauty of Sri Lanka, the country is poised to capitalize on its burgeoning status as a cultural and cinematic hub.

The Growing Influence of Film Festivals on Travel and Tourism

As the Singapore International Film Festival continues to grow in prominence, its ability to influence both cinema and tourism has become more apparent. The globalization of cinema is making it increasingly important for film festivals to position themselves as central hubs for both industry professionals and travelers. With its exposure of Asian films to the international market, SGIFF plays a significant role in the promotion of travel and tourism across Asia, highlighting emerging film industries in countries like Sri Lanka and Taiwan.

For tourism boards, the festival provides a unique platform to engage with international travelers and film enthusiasts. Countries that feature prominently in award-winning films gain an immediate boost in interest from tourists who are eager to visit locations from their favorite movies. These tourism opportunities are particularly strong in countries like Sri Lanka, Taiwan, and China, which have already seen a surge in interest due to the success of films showcased at international festivals like SGIFF.

As destination marketing becomes a more integral part of film festival strategies, we can expect to see more destinations leveraging their cinematic assets to attract visitors. The success of films like “Always” and “Riverstone” underscores the growing symbiosis between cinema and tourism. The role of film festivals in promoting local and regional tourism is more vital than ever, helping to position lesser-known destinations as must-visit places on the global map.

Film Tourism: A New Frontier for Cultural Exploration

Film tourism is not a new phenomenon, but its potential to drive travel has significantly increased in recent years. As cinema becomes more globalized, the travel industry is increasingly recognizing the role that films play in shaping tourist behavior. Award-winning films showcased at major festivals, such as SGIFF, inspire travelers to explore locations that have been immortalized on screen. Whether it’s the bustling streets of Taiwan, the serene landscapes of Sri Lanka, or the vibrant culture of France, films have the ability to draw visitors to destinations they might never have considered before.

The success of films like “Always” and “Riverstone” reinforces the idea that film festivals are not just about celebrating artistic achievements, but also about enhancing tourism. The festival’s recognition of these films, along with the growing interest in their filming locations, provides a unique opportunity for countries to market themselves as tourism hotspots. Film tourism is a powerful tool for destination marketing, allowing countries to capitalize on their cinematic assets while promoting their cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Conclusion: The Future of Film and Tourism in Asia

The triumph of “Always” and “Riverstone” at the Singapore International Film Festival is more than just a victory for these films and their creators. It represents the growing convergence of cinema and tourism, where the stories told on screen inspire real-world travel and cultural exploration. As Asia continues to emerge as a global force in the film industry, the potential for cinema-driven tourism is bound to increase.

For tourism stakeholders, from local governments to hotel chains and tour operators, this shift offers a new opportunity to engage with global audiences. By aligning their marketing strategies with the success of films showcased at international festivals, countries and regions can attract travelers eager to experience the locations and cultures portrayed on screen. As we look to the future, the influence of film tourism will only continue to grow, and countries that embrace this trend will be at the forefront of a new era of travel.