Communications in Humanities Research ISSN: 2753-7072
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Research Article

The Acceptance and Recontextualization of Chinese-Language Films in Foreign Streaming Media Markets

Xinghao LiBeijing Normal University - Hong Kong Baptist University*

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract

Against the backdrop of the rapid development and expansion of the global streaming media ecosystem and the popularity of localized operation strategies, Chinese-language films, if they want to "go global", are confronted with continuous challenges of "visibility - understandability - likeability". This paper, based on the comprehensive research of platforms and cross-cultural communication, and by sorting out the content acquisition and algorithmic recommendation mechanisms of platforms, the preferences of audience types, and the recontextualization strategies, constructs an analytical framework of "platform - audience". Research indicates that: Firstly, the platform's procurement of works/self-production of content and personalized recommendations jointly determine whether Chinese-language films can "be seen", but they may also cause the audience to be confined to specific circles, resulting in the predicament of being unable to break out of the circle for development; Secondly, historical/realistic themes are restricted by the cultural environment in which the audience grew up and the narrative rhythms they encounter in daily life, making it difficult for them to be accepted across cultures; Thirdly, a variety of recontextualization strategies centered on high-quality multilingual subtitles and local dubbing, limited reconstruction of rhythm and cultural symbols, are key factors in enhancing the completion rate, audience word-of-mouth, and positive feedback on the work. Based on this, this paper proposes that the platform should form a systematic synergy in the communication chain of "visibility enhancement - comprehension support - feedback reinforcement" to provide strategic support for the global dissemination of Chinese-language films.

Keywords: Chinese-language films; Streaming media platform; Cross-cultural acceptance; Recontextualization; Algorithm recommendation
Published: August 27, 2025
DOI: 10.54254/2753-7064/2025.LC26344
Volume: CHR Vol.74
pp. 236-242
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