There is a China ‘Avatar’ restriction. The Chinese government isn’t crazy about the blockbuster movie that has taken pretty much the rest of the world by storm. The Chinese government denies they are trying to ban the movie, but rather that they are simply trying to make room for domestic movies in celebration of the Chinese New Year. In the place of the James Cameron sci-fi flick ‘Avatar’, they will be showing a biopic on the Chinese philosopher Confucius. In addition, they say that they are only taking down the 2D version of the movie and that the 3D version will still be available for viewing in the country … somewhere.
The 2D version of ‘Avatar’ was pulled on Friday, January 22, 2010 and replaced with the Chinese made movie ‘Confucius’. Prior to the China ‘Avatar’ restriction, the wildly popular movie had grossed more than 300 million yuan in Chinese box office sales. That translates to about $43.94 million.
An official of the State Administration of Radio, Film and Television said that the decision to close down the movie was simply a ‘market behavior decision’ and that the government will not interfere. The regulator’s deputy chief, Zhang Hongsen, was quoted as saying.
Zhang went on to admit that the ‘Confucius’ movie is staring two of China’s most popular stars, Hong Kong’s Chow Yun-Fat and mainland Chinese actress Zhou Xun. Not to mention it is Chinese made. The movie was not made in 3D and therefore the regulatory officials feel it will not get a fair viewing if it has to compete with the 3D version of ‘Avatar’. Suffice it to say, China is not known for its support of free-enterprise.
The Chinese government only allows 20 foreign movies to be shown on the big screen per year. In addition, it is generally accepted that they give preferential showings to Chinese made films. Thus, the widespread piracy throughout China of movies that have been banned or never made available in theaters there.
Not to worry, the Chinese will still be able to see the movie. It has been widely available on pirated DVDs throughout China. Studio In a statement from Twentieth Century Fox, representatives stated they hope the film will be available in theaters for Chinese viewers. I’m sure they will prefer that to Chinese depending on the pirated version to watch the movie!
You can watch a news story about the premier prior to the China ‘Avatar’ restriction in the video below.
China ‘Avatar’ Premier – Video
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