Cinema in the Republic of China

Includes bibliographical references (page 88)Because of China's distinctive historical background, the art of the cinema in China is quite different from that of Western countries. This study presents a general view of the character of Chinese cinema. Chinese cinema has a very close relationship with Chinese modern history. In the 19th century, foreign countries opened the door of ancient China, and since then China has been influenced by the West. Chinese cinema in particular, adapted a great deal from abroad, especially from the United States of America. So this study includes a comparative analysis of Eastern and Western cinema. Cinema art in some ways reflects aspects of social phenomena and cultural characteristics. In order to understand Chinese cinema, one should not ignore the background and changing phases of Chinese society. By including some mention of these, this study can contribute to the understanding of Chinese culture and society by other peoples. World War II was a great shock to China, and also to Chinese cinema. Many famous Chinese cinematic professionals went to Hongkong, and created a Chinese Movie Center. Hongkong has subsequently played an important role in Chinese cinema history. After 1949, the Chinese government started to build studios and develop film companies in Taiwan. This was the beginning of another phase of Chinese cinema history. This study of the origins and the evolution of motion pictures in Taiwan, the Republic of China, is designed to contribute to the body of knowledge concerning the development of international mass communications