Pingtan builds dreams and mines riches in the film industry
en.ptnet.cn | Updated:2025-01-10 | Lin Kongbo, StephanieThe iconic windmills of Changjiang'ao Wind Farm in Pingtan against the backdrop of the sea have become a favorite among film crews, adding a touch of magic to numerous productions.
Pingtan, a picturesque island blessed with abundant natural and cultural landscapes and a strategic location adjacent to Taiwan, is making significant strides in boosting its film industry. With its breathtaking scenery as a backdrop, Pingtan has transformed into a hotspot for film and television productions, attracting crews nationwide and beyond.
With its unique geological formations, Trunk Bay offers a spectacular view that has captivated audiences in numerous film productions.
"The landscapes here are like invitations to the viewers," remarked numerous audience members during a meet-and-greet event for the road movie Never Meet Again which recently hit theaters nationwide. Filmed in Pingtan, the film showcases the island's windmill farm, coastal drive, and Trunk Bay, enchanting audiences with its scenic allure.
Pingtan's rise as an international tourism island has significantly bolstered its reputation, making the film industry a pivotal driver for local economic development and cultural vibrancy. Leveraging its unique island charm, Pingtan has invested heavily in infrastructure and policy support, attracting film productions and fostering a vibrant film industry ecosystem. The island has been honored with the title "National Film and Television Designated Shooting Location," solidifying its position as a fast-growing hub for the film industry.
The reality show Star Chaser filmed in Pingtan, showcasing the island's breathtaking landscapes and cultural charm to a wide audience
According to reports, over 129 film and television crews have chosen Pingtan as their shooting location, including notable projects like Island Keeper, The Procurator, and Remember Me.
State-of-the-art VP/XR Virtual Production Studio, located in Zhuyu Bay Film and Television Base, equipped with advanced LED screens and XR technology, offering filmmakers unprecedented creative freedom and cost savings
Pingtan's allure lies not only in its real-world landscapes but also in its cutting-edge virtual production facilities. The island's Zhuyu Bay Film and Television Base, a former shipyard transformed into a state-of-the-art film hub, now boasts a 5,000-square-meter virtual production studio equipped with advanced LED screens and XR technology. This innovative setup allows for cost savings of up to 40% compared to traditional filming methods, attracting projects such as the 23rd Chinese Bridge-Chinese Proficiency Competition for Foreign College Students finale and the upcoming film The Very Moment.
Policy incentives have also played a crucial role in Pingtan's film industry boom. Since 2018, the region has rolled out various incentives, including a 15% corporate tax rate for registered film companies and up to 20 million yuan in government rewards for high-performing films. These measures have attracted renowned firms like Sil-Metropole Organization, Chunqiu Time, and Hengye Film to establish subsidiaries in Pingtan.
"Xiao Yin Xiao Yuan" Seaside Restaurant, nestled by the sea, features a retro stone house design with two floors and a cozy courtyard. It has become a popular spot for tourists, many of whom visit after being inspired by locally filmed productions.
Moreover, Pingtan's film industry is intertwined with its tourism sector, creating a symbiotic relationship that benefits both. The popularity of locally filmed productions has significantly boosted tourism, with spots like the "Xiao Yin Xiao Yuan" seaside restaurant becoming hot tourist destinations. According to statistics, Pingtan welcomed 10.5 million tourists in 2024, generating 11 billion yuan in tourism revenue, marking a 2.3% and 3.9% increase from the previous year.
Pingtan Taiwan-style Film Base meticulously recreated to resemble Taipei's old streets, offers a unique backdrop for productions focusing on Taiwanese culture. Visitors can almost feel like they have stepped into Taipei itself.
Pingtan is also a bridge for cross-Straits film collaboration. The Taiwan-style film base, meticulously recreated to resemble Taipei's old streets, has attracted numerous productions focusing on Taiwanese culture. Additionally, events like the IM Film Festival have fostered deeper ties between film professionals from both sides of the Taiwan Straits.
"As I walked around, I suddenly realized how similar Pingtan is to Taipei. It made me understand that the two sides are very much alike," shared renowned Taiwanese film editor Liao Ching-Sung during the festival.