China's Decision to Ban "Memoirs of a Geisha" Encouraged the Appearance of Pirate DVDs

While Hollywood is disappointed about China's decision to ban "Memoirs of a Geisha", DVD sellers are making the sales of their lives due to this situation. By commercializing pirate copies on the streets they make a mockery of the government's efforts to control what its citizens see.


After initially clearing the film for distribution, China's State Administration of Radio, Film and Television reversed its decision last week over fears the film, which features Chinese actresses playing Japanese geishas, would spur anti-Japan sentiment at a time relations are already at a low.


But the decision's effect is only theoretical, as the illicit supply lines are in a process of blossoming. "It's a good copy," one seller says, offering it for only $0.85. "Of course it's been banned, but it doesn't really matter. All of my supply is pirated," he added saying that he himself also enjoyed the movie.


Another one hadn't even heard of the government decree: "I don't have it in yet, but I should be able to get you a copy in about two days if you like," he offered.


So it looks like China's decision to ban "Memoirs of a Geisha" not only that didn't stop Chinese people from watching the movie, but also encouraged the illicit DVD sales on the market.