Understand the Misunderstanding: A Study Incorporating Uses and Gratifications Theory on Why Chinese Film Audiences See America the Way They Do

This book focuses on the Uses and Gratificaitons Theory by evaluating the gratifications Chinese audiences receive when watching American films. It reveals gratifications Chinese audiences seek by watching films, in general, how their gratifications can be fulfilled by watching American films. The study hypothesizes that the preference for American films among majority Chinese audiences would affect Chinese audiences? understanding of the American culture. To be more precise, the study focuses on some misperceptions Chinese audiences have toward American culture. By studying these misperceptions, the researcher is able to determine the degree American films can mislead Chinese audiences? perceptions about American culture. The findings reveal three main elements in films that would attract most Chinese audiences. The findings also serve as a warning purpose to American film producers.