Insiders disclose tacit rules of China’s film and TV drama censorship

The remake A Chinese Ghost Story released in 2011 adapts the female character Nie Xiaoqian (acted by Liu Yifei) into a goblin in order to pass the censorship. (Photo source: shot screen from online movie)

(ECNS) – Ghosts and home-wreckers are among the many taboo topics in China's film censorship system, the Dalian-based Peninsula Morning Post reported.

Chinese authorities have numerous complex rules for TV dramas and movies, many of which are so obscure as to be "hidden," according to film and TV industry insiders.

China's administrative provisions on TV content stipulate that dramas cannot publicize "heresy" or "superstition." Insiders have longed struggled with censors over this issue, as spirits, demons and immortals are all included in Chinese myths.

Another rule forbids content that threatens social morality and traditional culture. Under this stipulation, people who break up marriages in TV shows must always end in misery.

China's laws and regulations are also used as justification for censors to reject dramas. China's family planning policy forbids illegitimate children, so TV shows with plots involving children born out of wedlock are not allowed.

Content deemed harmful to the physical and psychological health of minors is also banned. Puppy love cannot be seen on TV and campus violence is also forbidden.

Most of the censors are retired leaders from major media organizations, college teachers, and staffers at radio and television stations. They earn 50 to 100 yuan for censoring one episode of a TV drama.