More of them are developing scripts for art house-style movies that can win censors’ approval, helping an industry emerge. But is artistic integrity imperiled?
Until recently, a low-budget art house film’s best bet for making a return domestically was to be sold to a television station dedicated to movies, such as state-run CCTV6. But three years ago, the first art house cinema in mainland China opened in Beijing: Broadway Cinematheque Moma.
The dragon seal, is the official stamp of approval from the government.
But even if a film does receive a dragon seal, a wide theatrical opening is hardly guaranteed. Without a big-name star or a blockbuster story line, the chances of a film’s being shown in China’s megaplexes are bleak.
While non-dragon seal films can be sold only overseas or online.