International TV company to tap Chinese documentary potential ( 2003-09-07 11:40) (CCTV.com) International curiosity about
China and its intricate culture has prompted world renowned media and
entertainment company, Discovery Communications, to announce on Wednesday night
that they will continue their efforts to tap China's cultural well. They will
begin by premiering six short documentaries made by emerging Chinese
film-makers.
The First Time Film-makers' initiative is an ongoing commercial operation
model by Discovery channel to encourage and support the development of
non-fiction film-makers around the world. This year's theme, China: Past
Forward, features short films that address the impact of modernization and
technological advancement on Chinese culture and traditions.
The originality of the six Chinese stories, the enthusiasm and skills of the
Chinese directors, as well as their unique visions and perspectives, prompted
Discovery to continue its efforts in looking for hidden documentary stories
produced by Chinese film-makers next year.
Dawnl. Mccall, CEO of Discovery International Network, said:"There's a lack
of exposure. Certain country has its strong history of documentary film-making.
Others are just beginning to understand the importance of documentary
film-making, documenting their culture, their heritage. It varies from country
to country. China has a lot of untold stories. The audience are waiting to see
in the next few years. "
Of course, as a leading global real-world media, Discovery provides a
platform for Chinese documentary producers to showcase their work. The media
giant's experience and expertise may help these unknown film-makers produce
world-class documentaries. But the rich story content in China and the untapped
potential of Chinese film-makers are un-negligible factors attracting global
viewers.
Liu Chang, documentary producer, said:"In China, story sources are so
abundant that as long as you're devoted, you can produce wonderful work. In
western countries, story sources are over-tapped, so western producers don't
have much room to move."
According to a senior international documentary producer, many foreign
viewers were astounded by the Chinese works. They feel that further professional
development will lead to a bright future for film-makers showing the world a
China never seen before.
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