AI is rewriting China’s filmmaking rulebook, but the script isn’t finished

China's film industry is undergoing a dramatic revolution, driven by the swift integration of artificial intelligence into its production processes. This technological shift is most pronounced in the burgeoning genre of micro-dramas, short-form content designed for online consumption.

The statistics paint a striking picture of AI's ascendancy: in the first quarter of 2026, an astonishing 95 percent of newly produced micro-dramas in China were AI-generated. This represents a monumental leap from the previous year, when the figure was virtually nonexistent, highlighting the breakneck speed at which AI adoption has occurred.

This seismic change has prompted CNA to engage with pivotal figures within the industry. By speaking to key cast and crew members, the article delves into the implications of this "new plot twist." The discussions aim to uncover how AI is not just a tool but a force actively rewriting the established rules and practices of filmmaking in China.

The conversations are expected to shed light on the creative, economic, and ethical dimensions of this AI-driven transformation. From scriptwriting and character generation to visual effects and even acting, AI's expanding role is reshaping the landscape, raising questions about the future of human creativity and employment within the sector.