PLA's media volley seeks young recruits

To build a modern military, the People's Liberation Army is making full use of the 21st-century tools in its arsenal to attract new recruits.

Action-packed advertisements, hit reality shows and flash mobs, as well as a greater social media presence, have gone a long way in helping the military soften its image and reach young audiences.

The most effective weapon has arguably been Takes a RealMan, a reality show that puts celebrities through the rigors of military training. The show is made by Hunan TV in cooperation with August 1st Film Studio, the PLA's film production arm, and the Air Force.