Headlines from China: Indian-Chinese Co-production Makes Economic Sense Says Chinese Official

Indian-Chinese Co-production Makes Economic Sense Says Chinese Official

Indian film Bajrangi Bhaijaan has raked in 89 million yuan ($14 million) in China after six days in release. As the film was completed in 2015, and some Chinese audiences have watched its pirated version online, this box office number is not too disappointing. It also convinces many that Indian films have a market in China even without Amir Khan. After Dangal became a smash hit last year, Secret Superstar blazes new trail for Indian cinema in China as the first revenue-sharing import. What’s on the horizon is the first Indian-Chinese co-production The Zookeeper, which will be directed by the director of Bajrangi Bhaijaan Kabir Khan. “Indian films usually require way less investments compared to Hollywood productions. As Indian cinema continues to gain popularity in China, it makes economic sense for Chinese investors to invest in Indian-Chinese co-productions.” Says a Chinese official. Read more on yuledujiaoshou

Hit Indian Film ‘Hindi Medium’ Set for April 4 China Release

Hindi Medium, an Indian comedy-drama film will be released in China on April 4. The film tells a story of a couple who aspire to give their daughter the best education and thus be a part of and accepted by the elite class. The film stars Irrfan Khan who was known for his excellent performances in Slumdog Millionaire, Life of Pi and Jurrasic World. Read more on Mtime

Here is What Youku, iQiyi and Tencent Video are Anxious about

Right after this year’s Oscar Award Ceremony, Chinese streaming sites Youku, iQiyi and Tencent Video almost simultaneously announced lists of Oscar-winning films to be streamed on their platforms. This only shows the tip of the iceberg of how fierce the competition is among top streaming sites in China. iQiyi CEO Gong Yu once predicted that there would be only two platforms left at the end, meaning at least one of them would lose the battle. Back in 2010, Youku didn’t manage to enhance its market position after its US IPO. Over the past month, two Chinese video sites (iQiyi and Bilibili) filed IPO in the US. Meanwhile, media giant Toutiao is also testing the water in the online video sector. It remains to be seen who will be the winners at the end. Read more on yiyuguancha

Action Thriller ‘The Commuter’ Scores March 30 China Release

Jaume Collet-Serra’s thriller film The Commuter will be released in China on March 30. Starring Liam Neeson and Vera Farmiga, the film tells a story of a businessman who is caught up in a crime conspiracy during his daily commute home. Read more on Mtime