Wang and Zhu (2003)
Contents
Source Details
Wang and Zhu (2003) | |
Title: | Mapping Film Piracy in China |
Author(s): | Shujen Wang and Jonathan J.H. Zhu |
Year: | 2003 |
Citation: | Wang, Shujen, and Jonathan JH Zhu. Mapping film piracy in China. Theory, culture & society 20.4 (2003): 97-125. |
Link(s): | Definitive |
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About the Data | |
Data Description: | Interviews |
Data Type: | Primary and Secondary data |
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Cross Country Study?: | No |
Comparative Study?: | No |
Literature review?: | No |
Government or policy study?: | No |
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Abstract
This article examines one of the most crucial yet often-overlooked links in global film processes: piracy. It does so within the context of a changing digital media environment that calls for a reassessment of key dimensions: networks, globalization, technology, space and the state. More specifically, it focuses on the operation of film piracy networks in Greater China that includes the Mainland, Hong Kong and Taiwan. By zooming in on `Greater China', this article presents empirical accounts of specific links and connections on and between the intersecting distribution and piracy networks. In sum, distribution and piracy in China highlight some of the most interesting and intricate insights into issues of power, control, technology, network, speed, global-regional-national dynamics, subjectivities and reflexivity. Given the complexity of the issues, this study argues for a spatial, network and process-oriented theoretical framework.
Main Results of the Study
- As a result of both the regulatory and theoretical fractures, piracy offers some of the most interesting and
intricate insights into matters of control, space and the global economy
- Though piracy has cut into the profit margin of the Hollywood majors, it has also reinforced Hollywood dominance in global image markets by circulating Hollywood products and consequently cultivating and creating an environment and demand for more of these products
- While piracy challenges some aspects of the state power (e.g. law enforcement), it helps in others eg. creating employment, contributing to tax revenue and providing entertainment for 'an increasingly anxious public in a society in transition'
- Consumer sovereignty has been increased by digital technology
- Issues of piracy have highlighted the central, indispensable and indeed highly intricate roles the state plays in negotiating on the one hand with international trade regimes and transnational corporations, and
on the other with piracy networks
Policy Implications as Stated By Author
- China provides an example of the shifting nature of relations between powerful entities and those engaged in piracy
- It also demonstrates the fluidity of network (including national) boundaries evident in the shadow economy of piracy
- Reasons for buying pirated films are varied and include lack of legitimately available films, or available films of high enough quality, or on the right technological format
- Windowed release strategies are creating an incentive to buy pirated films by stemming supply
Coverage of Study
Datasets
Sample size: | 2 |
Level of aggregation: | Individual |
Period of material under study: | June 2000 |
Sample size: | 1 |
Level of aggregation: | Country |
Period of material under study: | 1950 to 2000 |