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| Jackie Cheng and Zhang Yimou were awarded with the Outstanding
Contributions to Chinese Films |
From Japanese anime to
monster movies, Shanghai has been the focal point of the world's film
industry this week, as the domestic industry celebrates its 100th
birthday.
Filmmakers, television channels, series developers, documentary makers,
stars and blockbuster producers, have all gathered in the city for the
Shanghai International Film Festival.
Some were looking to score awards in one of the two competitions held
as part of the nine-day festival while others were looking for a gateway
into what may become the world's largest film and television audience.
The Chinese market is a work in progress, but the potential audience of
1.3 billion people is enough to drive overseas movie producers and local
TV channels to distraction.
For overseas producers, like Hong Kong's i-cable, the Chinese mainland
provides an alluring prospect.
As Hong Kong's largest pay-TV provider, the company is looking for new
markets, and the mainland is a natural route for expansion. The Shanghai
film festival provides an ideal venue to take the first steps towards that
goal, Chief Operating Officer Siuming Tsui told China Daily.
I-Cable is just one example. Film producers have also come knocking and
some already have their foot inside the door.
Of the more than 200 films produced in China last year, 30 were
co-productions and the number is on the rise.
For many film and television production companies, China is a logical
step. And at the same time, Chinese production houses benefit from the
input of foreign quality and technology.
While 3,700 guests poured into Shanghai from all corners of the world,
the most obvious benefit for local residents is the 200 films being
screened in 17 theatres across the city.
Colourful Japanese animation - "The Place Promised In Our Early Days" -
fight against monster hunters in "Van Helsing" and European art house
productions such as "An Innocent Little Game" for the attention of the
public. With films screened, deals signed and the promise of a bright
future ahead, the film festival is providing an ideal celebration to mark
this significant year in China's film industry.
(Shenzhendaily) | 
Updated: 2005-06-17 15:48
