6 Things to Know About the Chinese Movie Industry
China’s film industry is one of the largest in the world. However, most western audiences know little about it. Those interested in the business side of the industry however know China poses a sizeable opportunity for profit, and new relationships are being formed.
Here are a few things western movie producers should know, about China and its movie-making industry.
Chinese Partners Required
By law, only Chinese companies can produce movies in China. Western companies can get around this, however, by producing and distributing films in partnerships with Chinese companies. This could mean both companies divide the work equally, so that some jobs are done in China and some are completed abroad. Others opt for a different arrangement, doing all the work abroad while using the Chinese company as a mere cover.
List of companies of China on Wikipedia
Censorship
China’s government is infamous for its grip on the public discourse, and this is evident in the film industry. Producers can only attempt to familiarize themselves with the rules, and stick to them as best they can. Have in mind this will often create a duality between artistic expression and government-enforced censorship. Sometimes you’ll have to choose, and it’s up to you to make the call.
Government of China on Wikipedia
Import Rules
China’s government is a communist one, with a rather strong grip on exports and imported goods. This goes for intellectual properties, as well. Market forces are also at work here: you’ll be able to compete for the ability to import into China, albeit within the limits set by the government.
Blacklists
When there’s government involvement in the movie industry, there are often talks of blacklists: secret governmental lists dictating who can and cannot work with the government. Such lists often include companies, and are often reserved for those who speak out in some way against the government.
Democracy in China on Wikipedia
Lack of Local Studios
There are not many local film studios in China, as most are owned by the government. This will present a problem for foreign studios, as there will always be a high demand for local talent. Laws of demand and supply apply to labor as well, meaning you’ll need to pay more to attain good talent in the area. Keep this in mind for behind-the-scenes jobs as well.
Copyright Laws
The simplest way to explain how copyright laws work in China is that no such laws exist–at least, not as we know them. For some time now, China has dealt with issues of piracy in regards to intellectual property. The government is beginning to address these problems, but in the meantime you should expect your IP to be treated as public property.
Intellectual property in China on Wikipedia
Conclusion
The Chinese movie industry holds great potential, but westerners will hit a learning curve as they struggle to adapt. From unique laws to government involvement, China’s film industry can be tricky to navigate, but profitable if done correctly
