BEIJING, March 23 (Xinhua) -- Nearly 500 movies, including productions from countries along the Belt and Road, will be screened during the 7th Beijing International Film Festival, which opens April 16.

Serbian film "On the Milky Road," Iranian film "The Salesman," "Ma'Rosa" from the Philippines and other films produced in Belt and Road countries will be featured during the week-long festival, according to the organization committee.

Danish film director Bille August will be chairing this year's Tiantan Award, which offers honors in ten categories, including best feature film, best director, best actor, best actress and best music.

Over 300 activities, including the opening and closing ceremonies, concerts, forums and film screenings will be held during the event, said Hu Dong, deputy secretary-general of the organization committee.