Actor's 'Screen-Capping' Sparks Copyright Debate in China

"Screen-capping" refers to the act of capturing images or recording videos of a movie while it is being screened in a theatre. It is seen as a violation of copyright law and is strictly prohibited in China. Despite these legal provisions, Beixin's fans have come to his defense, arguing that his actions were not malicious but rather a show of support for the film and its creators.

However, many netizens expressed their disapproval, criticising Beixin for his behavior at the movie theatre. They claim that capturing screenshots or recording videos during a movie screening not only breaches copyright laws but also disrupts the experience of other viewers in the theatre. This latter point is underscored by the fact that Beixin posted these images while the movie was running, with his phone’s bright screen potentially obstructing the view of those seated nearby.

The debate took a drastic turn when popular lawyer Zhou Zhongxing weighed in on Weibo, stating that "unauthorized recording constitutes copyright infringement regardless of whether it is distributed or not". His words immediately echoed among Weibo users, some of whom accused Beixin of giving a bad example to his large fan base.

Adding fuel to the fire, Beixin responded to the backlash on February 16, posting another message on his Weibo handle. "I wish you could see better and enjoy the movie," he wrote. "I thank you, and you're blocking your own view. It's a habit to show off and carry a smile with it. My heart is pure and without further need to express." This statement further ignited the existing controversy.

Meanwhile, another well-known public figure, Sun Yang, who had been vocal about the 'no screen-capping' policy even before Beixin's incident, also found himself targeted by fans of the actor. They accused Sun Yang of hypocrisy, pointing out that he too had been guilty of screen-capping in the past. However, Sun Yang stood his ground, stating that he had always maintained a consistent stand against the practice.

This incident has reignited the discussion about the growing culture of screen-capping during movie screenings in China. While some argue that it is a harmless act of fan fervour, others see it as a serious breach of copyright law that disrupts the cinematic experience for other viewers. In response to such incidents, Chinese theatres have been increasingly strict about enforcing the 'no screen-capping' rule, reportedly using infrared sensor devices to detect phone screens during screenings.

Despite the legal implications and potential disruption, defenders of Beixin and others accused of the act maintain that it is a harmless way of expressing their love for the movies and the stars they admire. However, with Chinese authorities reportedly stepping up efforts to enforce copyright laws, it remains to be seen whether these fan practices will continue to be tolerated in the future.

From the text provided, here are a few translated quotations from Weibo users:

"对我的个人体验而言，“屏摄”更是一种干扰观影的举动，很不舒服。举起光亮屏幕手机的那刻起，就跟微信聊天、接打电话、交谈、吃零食等行为无异，影院不是餐馆、不是光亮的体育赛馆，更不是私人领域，是需要保持安静、没有光亮的公共场合。人与人，不打扰是最基本的礼仪。"

Translation: "In my personal experience, 'screen capping' is a disruptive act during movie screenings, very uncomfortable. The moment the bright screen of a phone is brought up, it is no different from chatting on WeChat, answering calls, talking, and eating. A cinema is neither a restaurant nor a bright sports venue, nor is it a private space. It is a space that requires silence and lack of light. Between people, not disturbing each other is the most basic courtesy."

"孙阳科普了几年不要盗摄的，你们粉丝指责他的时候能不能看看他之前微博啊？"

Translation: "Sun Yang has been propagating against screen-capping for years. Can't you fans who accused him look at his previous Weibo posts?"

"没有人指责你不对只是提醒你选择了错误的宣传方式大大方方说句不好意思以后会加强版权意识很难吗不承认自己错了反而阴阳科普的人"

Translation: "Nobody is saying you're wrong. We're just pointing out you chose the wrong promotional method. Honestly admit your mistake. It's not hard to strengthen the awareness of copyright. Why deny it and instead ridicule those who propagate against screen-capping?"

"我看完满足的去机场啦~此行要一路演完 纽约 拉斯维加斯 圣荷西 温哥华 多 伦多 墨尔本 悉尼 奥克兰”我再回来的时候片子就应该下映了 愿你 不会错过这部佳片哦~"

Translation: "I'm satisfied after watching it and heading to the airport. The movie will tour New York, Las Vegas, St. Helena, Vancouver, Toronto, Melbourne, Sydney, and Auckland next. I hope you won't miss this great movie when it's released."