Experiences, issues, and challenges of Chinese independent documentary, filmmakers in the production of Chinese independent documentary films
Chinese independent documentary films have become vital in reflecting social realities and cultural diversity in China. However, they still lack recognition and support from both the government and the mainstream film industry. Since 2012, successive closures of three major independent film festi...
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| Format: | Thesis |
| Language: | en |
| Published: |
2024
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | http://psasir.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/123871/1/123871.pdf http://psasir.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/123871/ https://ethesis.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/18731 |
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| Summary: | Chinese independent documentary films have become vital in reflecting social realities
and cultural diversity in China. However, they still lack recognition and support from
both the government and the mainstream film industry. Since 2012, successive
closures of three major independent film festivals have deepened the crisis in
independent film production and distribution. The official termination of the China
Independent Film Festival (CIFF) in 2020 highlights the significant challenges these
filmmakers face, including limited opportunities, political restrictions, funding
difficulties, and distribution barriers. These obstacles have made it difficult for
Chinese independent documentaries to gain exposure, prompting filmmakers to
develop strategies to overcome these difficulties. This qualitative phenomenological
study, grounded in Auteur Theory and Framing Theory, explores the key
characteristics of Chinese independent documentary development from 2012 to 2022
in amidst restrictive policies and a rapidly changing social environment. It examines
the survival status, unique challenges, and strategies employed by filmmakers during
this period. The study was conducted in cities such as Beijing, Shenzhen, Hangzhou,
Xiamen, and Changsha, with a purposive sampling of 22 experienced independent
documentary filmmakers and practitioners, each with more than a decade of
experience. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and field notes, followed
by thematic analysis using NVivo 14. By expanding on Auteur Theory, this study
highlights the collaborative roles of stakeholders such as producers, curators, and
critics in shaping the distinctive features of Chinese independent documentaries and
aiding their dissemination. Additionally, it deepens the understanding of how framing
theory conceptualizes the challenges filmmakers face, offering insight into necessary
strategies. The study identified 14 themes and 43 sub-themes, revealing the unique
style, challenges, and strategies of Chinese independent documentaries. The findings
underscore the critical role these documentaries play as tools for self-expression,
despite limited opportunities and external pressures. Research also highlights issues
related to film quality, creative mindset, and ethics, which present ongoing challenges
for the industry. The study concludes that strategic collaboration, innovation, and a
gradual shift in attitudes toward limited commercial investment are essential for the
sustainable development of Chinese independent documentaries. Balancing creative
autonomy with market adaptation is key to ensuring their continued growth and
impact. |
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