China, Hollywood increase cinema cooperation

Both China and the United States have very large film industries, and cooperation between the two countries is on the rise. This year has seen some big co-productions, with some of the biggest stars gracing the Chinese screen. Never before has Hollywood and China been so in love.

"Matrix" star Keanu Reeves is getting in on the action. He's unveiled his directorial debut "Man of Tai Chi", produced by companies from both countries, and set to open in China later this year.

Tom Cruise has also brought his film "Oblivion" to Chinese fans. The "Mission Impossible" star has also made a trip to the Great Wall, immersing himself in the history of this ancient fortress.

Rober Downey Jr. has stopped over in Beijing as well for the world premiere of "Iron Man 3", a co-production between Marvel Studios, Paramount Pictures and China's DMG Entertainment.

Some of the film's scenes were shot in Beijing last December. Movie veteran Wang Xueqi appears in one scene, and there's also a cameo by Chinese star Fan Bingbing.

Hot on the heels of Iron Man 3's Chinese cameos, Li Bingbing has been added to the cast of "Transformers 4". Li is one of China's most recognizable actresses who also plays Ada Wong in "Resident Evil: Retribution". Similar to Iron Man 3, the sci-fi sequel has been co-produced by companies in both countries.

With box office revenues rising 30 percent last year to 2.7 billion dollars, China has now edged out Japan to become the second-largest film market in the world. And as China's film market continues to grow, the future of collaboration between China and the U.S. looks set to redefine the global industry.