(Ecns.cn)--Films that appeal to children have existed for decades and are still being produced in China. Yet currently such films – unless they are elaborate animated productions like "Kung Fu Panda" – have become hard to find in theaters hungry for profits.
Films lack commercial appeal
There was a time when many Chinese people enjoyed watching children's films, but as time goes by and movie theaters focus more on blockbusters from all over the world, the number of children's films in theaters has shrunk.
Many people believe that a good film can have a positive impact on children, expanding their appreciation of the world and helping them develop on an emotion level.
But because of commercial interests, many children's films do not make it into movie theaters. Some say such films suffer from low quality writing and production, and focus too much on principles.
If this is the case, then why do movies like the French-made "The Choir Boys," which has been highly praised by the International community, also fail to be widely screened in Chinese theaters?
"Most children's films target children only, and their content is comparatively simple, which is uninteresting to most adults," said a movie fan.
"The market for children's films is very small and, most importantly, children do not have the ability to consume," said a film industry insider. "If a movie doesn't look as if it will earn a profit, theaters probably won't agree to screen it. Children's films are just the type."
Only when a big movie award ceremony is held do people here about the year's children's films. Even on Children's Day, one can hardly find these types of movies in theaters.
However, the number of children's films produced in China is not small. According to statistics released during a recent film award program, China produced nearly 100 children's film in 2010 and 2011 – but only a few made it to theaters.
