Fictional Depictions of Youth in School in Films Made in China and United States

WANG CHANGSONG & ROHANI HASHIM
University Sains Malaysia, Malaysia

Abstract
This study discussed the differences between Chinese youth film and American teen film through the perspective on cultural foundation. The authors argue that Confucianism was an alternative that greatly affects the depiction of young characters and the causal relationship of morality and fate of the characters in films. The objective of such a comparison was not to advocate for either Chinese or American youth cinema in portraying young people, but to promote a better understanding of the strengths and impacts of youth cinema and youth genre. In addition, this study examined cinematic depictions of young characters portrayed in Chinese youth films and American teen films. It was argued that Chinese youth films and American youth films differ in depictions of school settings and even their purposes.

Keywords: Youth cinema, Chinese-language cinema, American cinema, sexual representation, school setting, youth genre

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Dr. Wang Changsong is a lecturer at the Film and Broadcasting Section, School of Communication, Universiti Sains Malaysia. His research interests include film and broadcasting, film studies, Chinese cinema, creativity studies, new media, and digital journalism.
Dr. Rohani Hashim is an associate professor at the Film and Broadcasting Section, School of Communication, Universiti Sains Malaysia. She specializes in visual communication, new media, media studies, and environmental journalism.