Why we read

China Daily celebrates World Book Day by talking to more than 30 celebrities and thinkers of various backgrounds about their perspectives on the power of the written word. Each public personality also recommends a favorite book.

Getting the big pictures

As China's film industry rockets into the stratosphere of amazing box-office returns, the international market becomes increasingly enticing. Yet, only a fraction of its revenues come from outside China, and even that is often the result of counting in the foreign receipts of co-productions, which technically do not go to the Chinese pocket. Chinese film companies, however, are moving up the learning curve. At a Beijing International Film Festival forum, CEO of Bona Film Group Ltd Yu Dong maps out three stages that Chinese films have to take to launch a global entry.

Import rumors remain a mystery

Christopher Dodd, president of the Motion Picture Association of America, says he has no information to offer about the rumors concerning Hollywood films' importation and distribution in China, now the fastest-growing film market in the world.

Co-productions facing up to some awkward realities

"Most co-productions ... don't work," said US director Oliver Stone at the ongoing 4th Beijing International Film Festival.

IMAX and its Chinese dream

IMAX has a Chinese dream for the fastest growing film market in the world.

A world of young ideas

Though it was her first time in Beijing, 17-year-old Anastasia Mistchenko from Ukraine, didn't have much time to go sightseeing.

Many foreigners discover the merits of a Chinese education

While many Chinese parents send their children to schools abroad to avoid the pressures of an exam-oriented educational system, a growing number of foreigners is discovering the merits of Chinese education.

What's new

New police drama opens in theaters

Not so sweet dreams

Snoring is more than a problem that can lead to sleepless nights. It can also be a serious health condition, medical experts say.

Stave off diabetes with fish, olive oil diet

For people recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, eating lots of olive oil, fish and whole grains slows progression of the disease more than restricting fat, according to a new analysis.

IN BRIEF (Page 22)

A nose for elegance

Celine Roux lives in East London. On weekends, she spends her time discovering galleries, exhibitions, gardens and markets all over the city. One day, when she was walking by Columbia Road flower market near her apartment, she happened to discover lovage, a tall perennial plant which exudes a unique smell.