In The News

To Get Movies Into China, Hollywood Gives Censors a Preview

Michael Cieply, Brooks Barnes January 21, 2013
The world’s most populous country and big market for entertainment imposes tough restrictions on films with sex, violence, politic, ghosts or Chinese villains. So China’s censors get a first peek at major Hollywood films, sometimes even sitting in on film shoots. Negotiations and edits can ensue. “The lure of access to China’s fast-growing film market – now the world’s second largest, behind that...

Can China and Turkey Forge a New Silk Road?

Anna Beth Keim, Sulmaan Khan January 18, 2013
China and Turkey are taking steps to reinvigorate their relationship and role as strong bookends to the Asian continent while encouraging new connections along the routes of the ancient Silk Road network. The two countries aim to boost bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2020, and plans are underway to connect Ankara and Beijing by rail. But there are complications, too. Turkey, NATO member, also...

China Is Film Superpower

Malcolm Moore January 16, 2013
For big ticket sales, filmmakers aim for the world’s biggest markets. With China slated to become the world’s top movie market by 2020, more filmmakers will be targeting Chinese audiences, which currently show show a preference for special effects and strong characterization, reports Malcolm Moore for the Telegraph. In China, censors get a first look at films, foreign and domestic. Those with...

Conservative Causes Go Global

Clifford Bob January 16, 2013
Global civil society has long been ideologically diverse and hard fought over many years, as demonstrated with the anti-slavery or suffrage movements. Causes with global stature carry greater prominence than local or national efforts, giving supporters access to more allies, resources and shared strategies. And while conservatives support minimal government in many areas, particularly...

Al Jazeera Seeks US Voice Where Gore Failed

Brian Stelter January 9, 2013
The Al Jazeera network will acquire millions of new US viewers with its purchase of Current TV, founded by Al Gore, former vice president, and a business partner less than a decade ago, reports Brian Stelter for the New York Times. Current TV struggled with low ratings and distribution rules that limited online content. Al Jazeera newscasts will come from New York and Doha. “A decade ago, Al...

China Toughens Restrictions on Internet Use

Keith Bradsher January 4, 2013
New rules in China require internet users to prove real names. Also, service providers must police forbidden postings and file reports with the authorities, reports Keith Bradsher for the New York Times. Users can still post to the internet with fake names, but service providers are expected to maintain lists of real names. The new rules could slow online debate. “In recent weeks, Internet users...

Delhi Gang Rape Spurs China Debate, Censorship

Ananth Krishnan January 1, 2013
A horrific crime in one country can spur reflection and debate about social mores in another. A gang rape in Delhi, and the victim's subsequent death, went from being widely reported in China to subject of censorship. Many official news outlets and commentators used the incident to criticize the unruliness of democracy, but other commenters marveled at massive protests throughout India. “...