In its most drastic measure ever against Hollywood, Chinese authorities have banned the release of American pics for at least three months.
Ban began Saturday and will continue until the end of February at least, but Chinese sources say it could continue until May.
Central-government order came from echelons higher up than the State Administration for Film Radio and Television or the Film Bureau, which normally handle movie industry policy and application. Ruling likely emanated within the Propaganda Ministry.
The Asian and Chinese arms of the studios have not been given any release slots in the first two months of 2008.
U.S. studio distribution execs had no comment, but speculation is that the ban will last until after the Chinese New Year celebration in early February. Key factors in the decision are said to be disagreements with U.S. trade policy and the recent success of American pics at the expense of local films.
