Global Distribution Networks, Local Exhibition Alliances: Hollywood's New Map in Hong Kong

Abstract

Shin V. K. W. and Chiu S. W. K. Global distribution networks, local exhibition alliances: Hollywood's new map in Hong Kong, Regional Studies. Hollywood firms dominate the international film industry through their distribution networks, but how did they develop these networks and how have the networks helped their movies penetrate overseas markets? This paper demonstrates how Hollywood expanded its global distribution networks and capitalized on its competitive advantages in the resilient Asian film market of Hong Kong - once deemed the 'Hollywood of the East'. The case study illustrates how the institutional change in Hong Kong's film industry restructured the global-local nexus between Hollywood distributors and Hong Kong cinemas, thereby allowing Hollywood movies to crowd out local productions in the market. © 2014 © 2014 Regional Studies Association.