Video websites get in on the action

BEIJING - With the rapid development of the Internet and the rising cost of copyright payment for TV dramas and films, video websites in China have started to make their own content and cultivate their own stars.

Shineshow Film Entertainment Company, a joint venture established by Shanda Interactive Entertainment Ltd and Golden Eagle Broadcasting System in November 2009, launched its first online platform, m-maker.com, in late June for micro-film creators who enjoy shooting videos or working behind the scenes.

"The platform is like a virtual Beijing Film Studio, where film tasks are released by our clients and taken by those who are interested in them," said Zhao Yurun, chief executive officer at Shineshow.