Blockbuster year expected for expanding silver screen industry

The capital's love affair with the movies has led to a rash of development of not only gigantic multiplexes built by cinema chains but smaller projects from private production companies.

"Although the market for cinemas is mostly saturated in Chaoyang district, especially in the CBD (Central Business District) area, Beijing still needs more cinemas in less-developed districts, such as Shijingshan, Fengtai and Daxing," said Kang Mingjun, general manager of Xindongan Cinema in Xindongan Shopping Mall, Wangfujing.

Huayi Brothers, the mainland's most high-profile movie production company, is putting together an ambitious plan to open six cinemas in major cities, including Beijing, next year. Within five years, the company hopes to have 15 locations nationwide.