“Night Market Hero” is the first Taiwanese film to be shown in mainland China since Taipei and Beijing signed the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement on June 29, 2010, the GIO said.
Under the terms of ECFA, Taiwanese movies are exempt from the mainland Chinese rule stating that no more than 50 foreign films can be screened in its cinemas every year.
“Taiwan’s movie industry has been boosted in recent years by several blockbuster productions. We hope that this momentum will keep going and that more talents and resources will be drawn to the sector,” said GIO Minister Philip Yang.
Set in a typical bustling Taiwanese night market, the comedy portrays the lives and resilience of street vendors. It grossed NT$140 million (US$4.9 million) at local box offices earlier this year.
Film director Yeh Tien-lun said Taiwanese street delicacies are an important element in the movie. “I hope this film can help viewers across the strait and the rest of the world better understand Taiwan’s unique night market culture and appreciate the friendliness of the people.”
“Night Market Hero” will be released in mainland China July 12 by Beijing-based movie distributor Bona Film Group Ltd. A second Taiwanese film, “L-O-V-E,” will follow in August. (HZW)
Write to Meg Chang at meg.chang@mail.gio.gov.tw