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The Technological Transformation of Chinese Cinema: From CGI to Cutting-Edge Cinematography

Last Updated on 2023/11/15

The Chinese film industry might not be as well known as Hollywood or Bollywood, but it is a thriving scene. It is one that has undergone significant change and major revolutions over the last few years, with technology playing its role.

Given the advancements that have been witnessed and China’s ability to be able to incorporate new technologies with seamless effort into numerous exports, it perhaps does not come as a surprise that the country’s film industry has been able to utilize whatever is available in an incredible way.

They have been able to use various techniques and methods that have made Chinese cinema bigger and better while potentially being more attractive, especially to audiences in the West who may not have been exposed to the films being produced in the region.

What Technological Advancements Have Been Used Across the Chinese Film Industry?

Film has always been at the cutting edge of new technologies, as directors and filmmakers strive to craft cinematic masterpieces for audiences to watch. Directors use various techniques in order to ensure an immersive viewing experience; such as using technology either to set scenes in their environment, or generate emotions out of viewers in full force.

Virtual technologies have been among one of the biggest advancements to have been experienced. Virtual production has already shown that it can have great potential, as it has seen record-high box office figures to be achieved. It can allow directors to see certain things, like how special effects and stock footage can work before being fully implemented, thus helping them to save costs and improve the overall efficiency in terms of the production process.

Artificial Intelligence is also widely being used across the Chinese film industry, with the tech also able to have a positive impact on cost-saving and reducing the amount of time wasted on certain processes that can delay the movie’s release.

CGI and Motion Capture technologies are very common across the global film industry. China has started to incorporate them into their productions to bridge the gap between them and the West. There has been criticism that the stories created by Chinese directors are lacking and do not often compare. However, the use of CGI and Motion Capture tech has provided them with new possibilities.

Filmmakers can create digitally enhanced characters and environments, allowing them to make movies that are more immersive and gripping from a story point of view, thus giving their audience something entirely unique and new from the norm. They can also use the tech to create scenes of places that exist without having the need to be in actual locations, which can be a huge benefit when trying to save money or time. Along with the use of CGI, the Chinese film industry has started to use green screen technology more and more, too.

The shots that are captured in each of the movies produced have also been able to change because of the technological advancements that have been experienced. The Chinese movie industry has managed to embrace new cinematography techniques to enhance its products and make them more visually appealing.

Directors have been able to use a variety of techniques in order for them to get the best shots, as they continue to push the boundaries that existed with the latest equipment. Aerial views have become a standard practice, while various editing techniques have also been utilized to ensure each image captured is sharp.

How Is Storytelling Impacted Through These Advancements?

Unsurprisingly, the implementation of new technological advancements has managed to have a positive impact on the role of storytelling across the Chinese film industry.

As highlighted, the sector has had its critics in terms of the stories that are told, as they often lack uniqueness or diversity. The techniques outlined above have been able to slowly remove the criticism in the modern era, though, as filmmakers are able to create new and engaging ideas that they can bring to life.

Storytelling is becoming more immersive for viewing audiences, as they are able to feel as though they are part of the plot that is being told. They can become emotionally invested through the use of the tech, while the stories being told can help the industry to grow beyond its own borders and look to try and bridge the gap between them and the West in a positive way.

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