Low-budget films worth a million laughs (3)

Lower tech barriers

"Digital video and cameras have dramatically lowered the barriers to feature filmmaking," says Li Tian, a film and TV expert. "The boom in online video-sharing websites and microblogs give a platform to small-budget movies that lack funds for promotion."

There's more to going to the movies than blockbusters with special effects and Chinese historic epics, and viewers are beginning to appreciate smaller films that are more creative and interesting, says Li.

Of course, they have a long way to go. Lack of contemporary good stories is a major problem.

A famously successful, and excellent low-budget film was young director Ning Hao's black comedy "Crazy Stone," which raked in around US$3 million with a budget of only one-seventh of its box office take.

It's about a precious jade pendant unearthed in the outhouse of factory - and competition by the factory owner, bumbling thieves, gangsters and the owner's son to grab it.

The cast was made up of unknown actors.

Ning, who is just 35, says the secret is an appealing story line and the way it's told; famous stars and a famous director are not prerequisites for success.

Film critic Li says a successful, low-budget film should have "a remarkable strength ... It can be the originality of the plot, special and creative filmmaking style and a close connection with viewers."

But artistic and art-house films still face the problem of limited appeal since their messages are often based on the director's personal experience and ideas.

Crucial transition

Film observers say that small and moderate budget films will flourish in time and they say this is a crucial transition period for Chinese cinema.

"Small budget movies as well as micro movies made by grassroots and first-time directors can give veteran film makers new inspiration and more perspectives on story telling," says Shi Chuan, a professor from Shanghai University's school of Film & TV arts and technology.

Compared with many big-budget films and epics that have to include special effects, high action, big stars and sometimes fantasy and science fiction, small-budget films offer more space for flexibility and creativity.

"Movies exploring real human issues and people's current state of anxiety and confusion will become increasingly popular," says professor Shi. "Cinema needs diversity which can generate more creativity."