China Media and Entertainment Weekly News Bulletin – ISSUE 19 Week of 7 October 2024
Tencent Music Entertainment Group’s first ESG report reveals 4,768 patent applications and strong monetization strategies, underscoring its commitment to innovation.
(2) China’s 2024 National Day Box Office Surpasses RMB¥800 Million, Sets New Record in Film History
China’s 2024 National Day box office has topped RMB¥800 million, led by hits like “Bureau 749” and “Tiger Wolf Rabbit” with record screenings and surpassing last year’s earnings.
Wong Kar-wai’s “Blossoms Shanghai” won two awards at the Busan International Film Festival, including Best Creative and Best Male Lead Actor for Hu Ge.
(4) Tennis: USA’S Coco Gauff Creates History with China Open Title
Coco Gauff won the China Open final, defeating Karolina Muchova and securing her second WTA 1000 title as she made history in being the first player to win her first seven WTA hardcourt finals.
(5) Hong Kong to Organise an Immersive Listening Experience for Coldplay’s Latest Album
Coldplay has announced multiple concerts in Hong Kong for April 2025 and is hosting an exclusive listening experience for their new album “Moon Music”
(6) Space Museum Gets into the Halloween Spirit
The Hong Kong Space Museum will transform into a Halloween wonderland, featuring whimsical characters and events like musical light displays and flash mobs to celebrate Halloween.
(7) Fan Bingbing Confirmed to Star in Chong Keat Aun’s ‘Mother Bhumi’
Fan Bingbing stars in “Mother Bhumi” a film about a farmer’s search for answers to her husband’s mysterious death, set for a late 2025 release.
(8) Eason Chan’s Daughter Constance Celebrates 20th Birthday with Rare Photos from Mother Hilary Tsui
Eason Chan and Hilary Tsui celebrated their daughter Constance’s 20th birthday by sharing heartfelt photos on social media.
(9) Galaxy Macau Presents ‘Galaxy Opera Gala’, an Unprecedented Opera Extravaganza Featuring Plácido Domingo and Guest
Plácido Domingo will perform with the Shenzhen Symphony Orchestra at Macau’s Galaxy International Convention Centre on 20 October, featuring arias from beloved operas.
(10) Michelle Wai’s Wedding Plans: Invites Renee Li to Bridal Party and Receives Special Gift from Albert Yeung
Michelle Wai revealed she is hands-off in planning her wedding to Dr. Kenley Chau while focusing on happiness and health, which will be a two-day ceremony with close friends from the industry.
(11) Hong Kong Electronic Music and Culture Festival “Midori” Returns in Another Secret Location
The Midori Festival returns from October 11 to 13 at a secret organic rice farm, featuring over 30 local DJs, and eco-friendly activities.
(12) Edison Chen’s Next CLOT x Adidas Superstar is Inspired By Milk Tea
Edison Chen’s CLOT is launching the “Milk Tea” adidas Superstar with a ripple sole on 12 October, blending high fashion and street style.
(1) Tencent Music Entertainment Owned 2,564 Active Patents and 4,295 Registered Trademarks at the End of 2023
(Photo Credit: Getty Images)
Tencent Music Entertainment Group (“TME”) has recently released its inaugural Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) report. A key focus of the report is TME’s impressive portfolio of intellectual property, which revealed that the company has applied for 4,768 patents as of December 2023, with 2,564 already granted by various patent offices.
In addition to its patent applications, TME has registered 6,111 trademarks, of which 4,295 are approved, along with 694 registered software copyrights. This robust IP strategy not only protects TME’s innovations but also enhances its competitive edge in the rapidly evolving music streaming industry, especially as Western companies take a closer look at developments in the Chinese market.
At Universal Music Group’s recent Capital Markets Day, TME’s successful monetization strategies, including its premium ‘Super VIP’ subscription tier, were highlighted as examples of effective revenue generation. TME’s Executive Chairman, Cussion Pang, noted that the ESG report reflects the company’s dedication to sustainability while fostering innovation through its extensive patent and trademark portfolio.
News Source: https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/tencent-music-entertainment-owned-2564-active-patents-and-4295-registered-copyrights-at-the-end-of-2023/
(2) China’s 2024 National Day Box Office Surpasses RMB¥800 Million, Sets New Record in Film History
(Photo Credit: Wang Gang / Imaginechina via AP)
As of Wednesday afternoon, China’s 2024 National Day holiday box office has surpassed RMB¥800 million (approximately US$113.98 million), according to ticketing platform “Maoyan”. Leading the charge are major films like the science fiction adventure “Bureau 749”, the action crime film “Tiger Wolf Rabbit”, and the war epic “The Volunteers: The Battle of Life and Death” which has remained at the top of the box office just days after its release, praised for its compelling storytelling and character development.
On the first day of the holiday, which ran from 1 to 7 October, box office earnings reached RMB¥494 million, marking a significant milestone as it is the second time since 1 May’s “golden week” that daily earnings have exceeded RMB¥400 million. This performance positions it fourth in National Day holiday box office history, surpassing last year’s total of RMB¥430 million, as reported by CCTV.
The holiday season has seen a record 464,000 screenings nationwide, drawing 11.46 million viewers. Sun Jiashan, an associate researcher at the Central Academy of Culture and Tourism Administration, noted that the diverse selection of films and enthusiastic audience engagement have contributed to this year’s success.
News Source: https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202410/1320659.shtml
(3) Wong Kar-wai’s ‘Blossoms Shanghai,’ Netflix’s ‘Cigarette Girl’ Win Top Prizes at Busan Streaming Awards
(Photo Credit: “Blossoms Shanghai”)
Wong Kar-wai’s highly anticipated series debut, “Blossoms Shanghai,” has made a significant impact at the Busan International Film Festival which commenced on 2 October, capturing two prestigious awards at the sixth annual Asia Contents Awards and Global OTT (streaming) Awards. The Tencent Video series won Best Creative and garnered Best Male Lead Actor for Hu Ge, a reflection of the series’ artistic excellence and strong performances.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Shanghai, “Blossoms Shanghai” showcases Wong’s signature storytelling style and has been praised for its innovative approach. The series explores themes of love and loss, and reminds us that Wong Kar-wai is still a leading figure in contemporary cinema. The recognition at Busan underscores the series’ resonance with audiences and critics alike.
In addition to “Blossoms Shanghai,” other notable winners at the awards included Indonesian Netflix series “Cigarette Girl,” which won Best Director for Kamila Andini and Ifa Isfansyah, and Ariel Lin, who received Best Female Lead Actor for her role in PTS Taiwan’s “Imperfect Us”.
News Source: https://variety.com/2024/tv/asia/wong-kar-wai-blossoms-shanghai-busan-streaming-awards-2-1236169308/
(4) Tennis: USA’S Coco Gauff Creates History with China Open Title
(Photo Credit: Lapresse)
Coco Gauff, currently ranked sixth in the world, delivered a remarkable performance at the China Open final on Sunday, defeating unseeded Czech player Karolina Muchova with a score of 6-1, 6-3. This victory not only secured Gauff her second WTA 1000 title but also made her the first player in the Open Era to win her first seven WTA hardcourt finals.
The win improves Gauff’s head-to-head record against Muchova to 3-0 and marks her eighth victory in nine WTA finals. Gauff began the final strong, breaking Muchova early and maintaining the lead throughout the match. Despite some early struggles in the second set, she quickly regained her momentum to secure the win.
After the match, Gauff expressed her admiration for Muchova, who recently returned to the tour after recovering from a wrist injury sustained at the 2023 U.S. Open. Gauff’s acknowledgment of her opponent reflected a spirit of sportsmanship amid her own success.
(5) Hong Kong to Organise an Immersive Listening Experience for Coldplay’s Latest Album
(Photo Credit: The News)
Coldplay has generated excitement across Hong Kong with their announcement of multiple concerts scheduled for April 2025. To build anticipation for their performances, the band is hosting an exclusive listening experience for their latest album, Moon Music, as it marks their first release since 2021.
The listening experience will take place from 4 to 13 October at Ztoryhome in Sai Ying Pun, running daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Attendees can expect a seamless blend of themes such as love, hope, and existential wonder, providing a unique opportunity to connect with the band’s latest work.
Coldplay will bring their “Music of the Spheres World Tour” to Hong Kong on 9, 11 and 12 April 2025, with concerts held at the newly inaugurated Kai Tak Sports Park Main Stadium. This marks the band’s return to Hong Kong after 15 years, following their last performance in 2009. In addition to Coldplay, the city is set to host various other concerts featuring artists like John Legend, Imagine Dragons, and Ne-Yo, making it a vibrant time for music lovers in Hong Kong.
(6) Space Museum Gets into the Halloween Spirit
(Photo credit: InmediaHK)
From 18 to 31 October, the Hong Kong Space Museum will transform into a Halloween wonderland, featuring whimsical characters such as glowing pumpkins and playful ghosts. The Hong Kong Tourism Board is set to launch a series of exciting Halloween events designed to enchant both locals and tourists during this spooky season.
Dane Cheng Ting-yat, the board’s executive director, highlighted Halloween as a major draw for visitors. Festivities in the city during the month will include dazzling musical light displays and shadow cosplay at the museum, along with surprise flash mob performances. A themed tram will also traverse Hong Kong Island, culminating in a festive parade of adorable ghosts and monsters on Halloween night.
In addition to the festive fun, a late-night dining guide will spotlight over 30 eateries serving up international flavors and local favorites. Diners can enjoy special offers like a HK$9.90 lamb casserole and free Peking Duck for larger groups. The city will be adorned with festive decorations, and a charming “pumpkin carriage” ice cream truck will delight sweet-toothed revelers with free treats on Halloween night at Pier 8, Central Ferry Piers.
News Source: https://www.thestandard.com.hk/section-news/section/1/266809/Space-museum-gets-into-the-Halloween-spirit
(7) Fan Bingbing Confirmed to Star in Chong Keat Aun’s ‘Mother Bhumi’
(Photo Credit: Janji Pictures/Volos Films Italia/Pow Lai Xiang)
Chinese superstar Fan Bingbing headlines “Mother Bhumi” the latest film from Malaysian director Chong Keat Aun. The feature film centers on a community of farmers living along the Malaysia-Thailand border and follows the story of Hong Im, a farmer who faces the mysterious death of her husband. In her quest for answers, Hong Im turns to black magic to help villagers with their everyday problems, ultimately encountering a ghost that reveals a secret about her husband’s demise.
The cast also features Taiwan’s Bai Run-yin, known for his role in the Golden Horse-winning film “Old Fox,” and Hong Kong’s Natalie Hsu, who plays Hong Im’s daughter. This film marks Chong’s third feature, following his critically acclaimed works “Story of the Southern Islet” and “Snow in Midsummer,” both of which have earned him recognition at international film festivals.
“Mother Bhumi” is a co-production between Malaysia and Italy, with Janji Pictures and Volos Films Italia collaborating on the project. Production is currently underway, with filming expected to wrap up in November. The team aims for a release in the festival circuit in the second half of 2025. Fan Bingbing, who has recently made a strong comeback in international cinema after overcoming past challenges, is anticipated to bring her star power to this compelling narrative.
News Source: https://variety.com/2024/film/asia/fan-bingbing-mother-bhumi-chong-keat-aun-1236169628/
(8) Eason Chan’s Daughter Constance Celebrates 20th Birthday with Rare Photos from Mother Hilary Tsui
(Photo Credit: Instagram of Hilary Tsui)
Hong Kong singer Eason Chan and actress Hilary Tsui have generally kept their daughter, Constance Chan, away from the public eye. However, to celebrate her 20th birthday, Tsui shared a selection of photos on social media and captioned “Chapter 20” which offered fans a glimpse into this special occasion.
The images highlight Constance’s natural charm, from photos of her childhood with one capturing Constance’s side profile which showcased her youthful charisma, to another of her in a skiing scene, where she enjoyed the winter landscape and indulged in her active lifestyle. Each photo offers a glimpse into Constance’s personality as she celebrates this significant milestone.
Constance, who usually keeps a low profile, has recently drawn media attention for her romantic life, having been linked to model Pete (Chung Ka Ka) and currently dating a Japanese mixed-race model. Hilary Tsui supports her daughter’s relationships, as she often shares candid photos that showcase their close bond.
News Source:https://www.dimsumdaily.hk/eason-chans-daughter-constance-celebrates-20th-birthday-with-rare-photos-from-mother-hilary-tsui/
(9) Galaxy Macau Presents ‘Galaxy Opera Gala’, an Unprecedented Opera Extravaganza Featuring Plácido Domingo and Guests
(Photo Credit: AFP)
Renowned Spanish tenor Plácido Domingo will perform with the Shenzhen Symphony Orchestra, one of China’s leading ensembles at the Galaxy International Convention Centre in Macau on 20 October. Joining them are promising talents, including soprano Bingbing Wang, the first Chinese graduate with a Master’s Degree from the Giuseppe Verdi Conservatory in Milan.
The concert will feature a captivating selection of arias and duets from beloved operas such as La Traviata, The Merry Widow, The Marriage of Figaro, and Carmen. This collaboration aims to showcase a blend of musical excellence and rich operatic tradition.
The event will take place at the Galaxy International Convention Centre (GICC) in Macau, which opened in December 2023. This state-of-the-art venue offers 40,000 square meters of space, accommodating up to 8,500 guests for banquets and approximately 16,000 for cocktail receptions. With advanced audio-visual facilities, the Galaxy Arena is set to become a premier location for major concerts and events.
(10) Michelle Wai’s Wedding Plans: Invites Renee Li to Bridal Party and Receives Special Gift from Albert Yeung
(Photo Credit: am730)
Hong Kong singer and actress Michelle Wai discussed her upcoming wedding to fiancé Dr. Kenley Chau, a specialist in aesthetic medicine, in a recent interview with Hong Kong 01. She revealed that she has been completely hands-off with the planning of the wedding, and has entrusted her manager instead with the planning, believing her manager is the best choice for the task.
Wai shared that she and Kenley recently practiced the ceremony details at the church, including timing and music cues. While she experiences some pre-wedding nerves, her busy schedule keeps her occupied. She expressed confidence in her manager’s choice for her wedding dress and emphasized that her focus is on happiness and skin health rather than dieting.
The wedding will take place over two days, featuring a church ceremony and a banquet with close friends from the industry, including actors Carlos Chan and Renee Li in her bridal party. Wai also mentioned receiving a wedding gift from her boss, Albert Yeung, but kept the details private. Looking ahead, she plans to continue working after the wedding and currently does not intend to have children, stating “We’re both okay with not having kids.”
News Source: https://www.hk01.com/%E5%8D%B3%E6%99%82%E5%A8%9B%E6%A8%82/1064808/%E8%A1%9B%E8%A9%A9%E9%9B%85%E9%80%8F%E9%9C%B2%E5%A9%9A%E7%A6%AE%E8%AB%8B%E6%9D%8E%E8%98%8A%E4%BB%BB%E6%96%B0%E5%A8%98%E5%9C%98-%E7%8D%B2%E6%A5%8A%E5%8F%97%E6%88%90%E9%80%81%E7%A6%AE%E6%B2%BE%E6%B2%BE%E8%87%AA%E5%96%9C-%E8%8B%B1%E7%9A%87%E5%AB%81%E5%A5%B3
(11) Hong Kong Electronic Music and Culture Festival “Midori” Returns in Another Secret Location
(Photo Credit: HKFP)
The Midori Festival is making a comeback from 11 to 13 October, following its successful debut in May, which featured a lineup of Hong Kong-based DJs. This three-day event will take place at a secret rural location, complete with a campsite, to emphasize its commitment to eco-friendliness. Nathan Cornish, founder of Y2K, the event organizer, highlighted that the festival aims to showcase Hong Kong’s beautiful natural landscapes.
Building on the success of its inaugural edition, which was held on an eco-farm on Lantau Island, this year’s festival will occur on an organic rice farm on the outskirts of Hong Kong. Over 30 DJs from various local music collectives will perform in back-to-back sets, with a focus on underground electronic music and the culture associated with it, distinguishing Midori from larger commercial events.
In addition to music, the festival will offer a range of activities, including music production lessons, pottery workshops, and excursions for herb and fungi foraging. Attendees can also participate in outdoor lectures and screenings on ecological topics. Midori emphasizes a no-waste experience with biodegradable cups and minimal environmental impact.
News Source: https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3281370/midori-electronic-music-and-culture-festival-returns-another-secret-hong-kong-location?module=top_story&pgtype=section
(12) Edison Chen’s Next CLOT x Adidas Superstar is Inspired By Milk Tea
(Photo Credit: Adidas/CLOT)
Under the creative vision of Edison Chen, CLOT is blending high fashion with street style in its latest partnership with adidas, further evolving the iconic Superstar with a unique ripple sole. This new release showcases a distinctive aesthetic that resonates with sneakerheads.
Inspired by the comforting hues of Hong Kong-style milk tea, the “Milk Tea” (Crystal Sand) colorway infuses a rich cultural narrative into the classic sneaker design. Following the previous releases of monochromatic black and white versions, this installment features luxurious brown leather welting and a matching leather shell toe, along with a chunky ripple sole reminiscent of rugged outdoor footwear.
The CLOT x adidas Superstar “Milk Tea” is set for an exclusive pre-launch on 12 October through various JUICE retail channels, including their ONLINE WeChat mini-program and juicestore.com. A wider global release is expected on Adidas.com, although the exact date has yet to be announced.
News Source: https://houseofheat.co/nike/nike-calm-slide-university-blue-fd4116-401
