THE sixth Beijing International Film Festival, an event with the theme of “high-quality films and the China spirit”, kicked off on April 16. The opening ceremony’s guest list was full of stars, but a highlight (高潮) was probably the appearance of Natalie Portman. The Oscar-winning actress looked refined in a multicolored dress. She attended the event to promote the first movie she has directed, A Tale of Love and Darkness. “I have been working in the film industry for over 20 years, and I have been wanting to direct my own film, so now it’s a dream come true,” Portman said. “I hope the audience will like it.”