Early Access to Immersive Innovation

On April 16, the Global Smart Lab team had the unique opportunity to preview a specially curated selection of immersive works as part of the 15th Beijing International Film Festival – Boundless ∞ Immersive Section.

Thanks to an invitation from Professor Lin CHE of the Communication University of China, Chris O’Connor and Dr. Ruohan Tang attended the immersive showcase a day ahead of the main public programme. The preview allowed early access to a collection of internationally recognised XR experiences, offering a valuable window into the creative and technical possibilities shaping the future of immersive storytelling.

A Curated Immersive Experience

The works on display were carefully selected for their innovation, emotional impact, and experimentation with format. Highlights included:

🎥 The Imaginary Friend – a deeply affecting VR narrative by Steye Hallema, produced by Studio Biarritz, and co-produced by Submarine Channel and Cassette for timescapes. The piece explores themes of memory, childhood, and emotional attachment in a richly atmospheric experience.

⚡ Impulse: Playing with Reality – a 40-minute interactive mixed reality documentary by Anagram, co-produced by Floréal and France Télévisions, and narrated by Tilda Swinton. This award-winning experience delves into the lived experiences of individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), combining sharp-witted gameplay with dramatic first-hand accounts. Through mixed reality, it brings to life the inner worlds of four individuals—Leanne, Omar, Errol, and Tara—each navigating the challenges and revelations of ADHD. The experience was recognized with the Venice Immersive Achievement Award at the 81st Venice International Film Festival. ​whatson.bfi.org.uk+3weareanagram.co.uk+3La Biennale di Venezia+3YouTube+1La Biennale di Venezia+1

Both projects had received critical acclaim at previous international festivals and provided powerful reference points for our own student teams exploring inclusive and immersive design.

Bridging Industry and Education

This preview session not only offered a look at best-in-class work from the immersive sector but also helped contextualise the student projects within a broader creative and industry framework. Seeing award-winning work firsthand sparked meaningful reflection on storytelling methods, user engagement, and accessibility within XR spaces.

The experience also highlighted the value of international collaboration in shaping curriculum, research, and emerging practice across institutions like WSA and CUC.