Oh, I think they're already up there with the aesthetics, I just don't find the content appealing. I watched (on Netflix) some Chinese attempt at a Downton Abbey a few years ago, and the production value was through the roof, absolutely insane. But the actual writing was pretty vapid and it's still drenched in propaganda.
I've had similar experience with film. Just compare the stuff coming out of Hong Kong today with what came out during the 80's and 90's.
Comedy is another thing I don't see go on export any time soon...
I actually don’t get what happened with Hong Kong. Stuff was good then it went bad. But in general it’s expected that stuff will be bad. Generally writing and story telling is the hardest to improve while production and special effects are easier.
The great story telling from China comes from its mythology and I feel China hasn’t yet found a method to depict this on screen without being too cheesy, fakeish or over the top.
I think this is why animation and video games work here temporarily. China will eventually get its act together.
I've had similar experience with film. Just compare the stuff coming out of Hong Kong today with what came out during the 80's and 90's.
Comedy is another thing I don't see go on export any time soon...