Chinese list censorship problems

chris

China’s broadcasting regulator has itemised what it will not tolerate on screen, either on TV or the large screen – and the list is comprehensive.

China’s state regulator SARFT (State Administration of Radio, Film and Television) in a note to media and publishers says it wants to “purify” entertainment and create a “more harmonious” environment for its viewers, and especially youngsters.

Some of the elements are common sense, like no hardcore sexual activity, rape, prostitution, nudity, vulgar dialogue or music with a sexual connotation. But films or programming that show violence, murder, evil spirits and devils, or excessively terrifying scenes are also proscribed.

However, the rules are all down to interpretation. Get it wrong, or wrong in the eyes of SARFT (as Ang Lee did with his award-winning Lust, Caution) and the results can be far-reaching. Lust, Caution star Tang Wei (pictured, left) has just been totally blacklisted in China because of her role in the sexually explicit movie. Broadcasters (and publishers) are forbidden to report on the star – and this even extends to a TV commercial she has done for Pond’s cold cream. Print and outdoor ads for the product are also prohibited.

The Asian Film Awards, slated for March 17, have already listed Tang as a presenter (and likely recipient of an award for the movie) in Hong Kong, and it will be interesting to see how the local authorities in Hong Kong interpret the rules.