China Media Monitor Headlines Archives

China is currently drafting new regulations to introduce a rating system for online content similar to the ratings systems for film in other countries, according to Ministry of Culture spokesperson Tuo Zuhai at the 7th International Internet Culture Expo. The government is also drafting new regulations for a real name registration system as well as the protection of online fiscal and intellectual property. Tuo  also urged game operators to develop more wholesome online content free from violence and pornography.

The producers of Zhang Yimou's new film A Simple Noodle Story (San Qiang Pai An Jing Qi) will focus on online promotions in a bid to attract young viewers, according to People's Daily. Beijing New Picture Film, the company that co-produced Noodle Story with Sony Pictures Classics, has launched an official website dedicated to Zhang Yimou plus an official website for the film and an online game with the same name as the film. The online promotional drive is tied in with the film's premiere on December 11. Noodle Story is Zhang Yimou's adaptation of the Coen Brothers' classic Blood Simple.

Hong Kong's Phoenix TV will cooperate with mainland China's Nanfang Publishing Group on news publishing and new media development, according to a strategic cooperative agreement signed on December 4. Both parties will also work together on branding and international market development. To start the cooperation, both sides plan to exchange reports, co-produce video programs and launch market surveys.

Sony Group CEO Howard Stringer discussed copyright protection of music, film and DVDs in China during a recent meeting with Yan Xiaohong, Deputy Director of the General Administration of Press and Publication (GAPP). Yan Xiaohong indicated that China is willing to cooperate with international corporations on copyright protection, as this will help to further the local entertainment industries. Stringer said he expects Sony to increase its cooperation with mainland companies but expressed concerns over the impact of government censorship.

Eight mainland film producers and distributors have signed a pact to release realistic and genuine box office statistics for all films due to premiere over the busy Christmas/Chinese New Year season, according to Chinese Business News. The films covered by the pact include A Simple Noodle Story (Sanqiang Paian Jingqi), Bodyguards and Assassins (Shiyue Weicheng), Storm Warrior II (Feng Yun II), Confucius (Kongzi), 14 Blades (Jin Yiwei), Treasure Hunter (Ci Ling), 72 Renters (Qishier Jia Zuke) and True Legend (Su Qier). The pact comes after Astro Boy's mainland distributor Enlight Media was caught releasing inflated box office figures for the film at a November press conference.