Challenges for Chinese film directors in contemporary film industry / Li Jiangyue, Muhammad Hakimi Tew Abdullah and Wan Hartini Wan Zainodin

This study explores the challenges and threats faced by Chinese film directors in maintaining relevance within the contemporary film industry. Through in-depth interviews with 25 directors, this research identifies key issues affecting their careers, including the tension between artistic expression and commercial demands, career instability, censorship constraints, financial pressures, and systemic industry deficiencies. The study highlights how directors struggle to balance personal creative vision with audience preferences, particularly in an era of shifting market trends and the rise of fast-paced media consumption. Industry instability, marked by unpredictable work cycles and low salaries, forces many directors to seek financially stable careers outside filmmaking. Censorship further restricts creative freedom by limiting the exploration of sensitive themes. Additionally, intense domestic and international competition often prioritizes film festival recognition and commercial success over originality. Cultural barriers, such as persistent stereotypes in Western perceptions of Chinese cinema, hinder the global reach of Chinese films. Financial pressures, exacerbated by high celebrity salaries and budget constraints, push the industry toward commercially viable projects at the expense of artistic innovation. Furthermore, the lack of a well-developed support system and professional training opportunities impedes the growth of emerging filmmakers. Despite these challenges, directors continue to explore innovative ways to sustain their craft. This study underscores the need for systemic reforms to foster an environment where artistic freedom and industry sustainability coexist. The findings suggest that strengthening institutional support, improving international collaboration, and encouraging diverse storytelling are essential for enhancing the global relevance of Chinese filmmakers. Future research should explore the evolving impact of digital platforms, government policies, and international market trends on the careers of Chinese directors.