China's domestic film industry is interested in growing the local science-fiction genre, but cultivating the scene is still proving to be challenging. Audiences and industry names await the release and reviews of "The Three-Body Problem."
"The audience is not necessarily made up of sci-fi fans, filmmakers must consider average moviegoers. A successful sci-fi movie should not be packed with sci-fi elements. An entertaining story planted in a sci-fi scenario would be a better choice," suggests scriptwriter Zhang Liang.
"In the past, not many people took science fiction seriously. Now they are just trying to understand each other," Zhang added.
Filmmakers have been purchasing the rights to sci-fi novels but do not necessarily turn them into movies. According to Zhang, some film companies are simply hording for the future.
Sci-fi author Chen Qiufan remarked: "Many film companies buy novels speculatively. They will probably not even adapt them, instead choosing to re-sell for a profit I'd rather see my stories on the screen."
Chen Qiufan is a science-fiction author that has been adviser to several sci-fi films produced in the past two years.
The success of best-selling sci-fi saga "The Three-Body Problem" by Liu Cixin has catalyzed the interest of investors in sci-fi movies. The book has reached cult status and an international fanbase. The movie adaptation will be released in July. It could possibly prove to be a positive sign for the genre in domestic film production.
The movie utilized an American production team that contributed special effects. Producer Kong Xiangzhao hopes the movie will successfully compete with foreign blockbusters. It will not be considered a true Chinese production, but the collaboration will hopefully set new standards for professionalism and technical prowess in the local scene.