From scripts to hits: Qingdao's microfilm base takes off

The Marketing Center of the North Micro-dramas City in Qingdao West Coast New Area. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The North Micro-dramas City, located in the Cangma Mountain International Tourism Resort of Qingdao West Coast New Area, started operating in April 2024. To date, it has produced a total of 131 micro-short films, including 21 overseas-targeted short films and 14 high-quality short films, giving it a burgeoning reputation for producing high-performing content.

Encompassing a sprawling 32 square kilometers, the base features over 100 unique shooting locations and is able to host multiple film crews concurrently. Cangma town is collaborating closely with the base to coordinate scenes involving local schools, pastoral landscapes, and other rural film resources. Additional resources range from train carriages and tourist ferries to docks and airport terminals. The base is continuing to expand its repertoire of shooting locations.

Unlike traditional film and television bases, the North Micro-dramas City was established with a dual mission of fostering cultural and tourism development.

"The base's impact on cultural and tourism development is beginning to bear fruit. While filming at the base, there has been a noticeable uptick in the development of surrounding businesses such as catering and accommodation. Several blockbuster micro-short films have generated significant interest in the area, serving as an effective promotional platform for cultural and tourism brands," said Pang Wei, the base's operations manager.