[Video] How China’s film industry is evolving

According to the 2023 China film market’s annual review, released by the film data platform Beacon in collaboration with the Xinhua news agency, all top ten grossing films in China In 2023 were domestic productions. Crime and suspense joined drama, comedy and action as the top five most popular genres.

Not only that, female viewership has steadily risen from 51.2% in 2019 to 58.1% in 2023. This shift has prompted filmmakers to explore more female-centric themes and challenge traditional representations, as seen in films such as Lost in the Stars (2022) and Hi, Mom (2021).

Directors are also delving into domestic themes and social issues that reflect the complexities of contemporary China. Films like No More Bets (2023) and Across the Furious Sea (2023) have particularly struck a chord with audiences. Patriotic blockbusters, including Wolf Warrior (2015) and The Battle at Lake Changjin (2021) have also achieved notable success.

In the internet age, filmmakers are also venturing into making web series and short films, even in vertical formats.

At movie theatres, however, despite a 30% increase in total screenings, there has been a 5% decline in actual moviegoers. Various Chinese media sources have pointed to other problems such as “excessive and irrelevant marketing on social media” and “congested releases during holidays”.

Related: Chinese films hit it big during CNY, but is it enough to save the industry? | Can China’s movies depict poverty and the ugliness of society? | Can the Chinese criticise their patriotic movies? | How should the Hong Kong film industry overcome its difficulties?