Confucius Replacing Avatar in China

In the next few days, the Chinese government will be pulling the globally acclaimed "Avatar" from many Chinese theaters – notably, ones without 3-D viewing technology – in order to make room for a domestically produced biography of Confucius. The move is being made in accordance with China's foreign film laws, which allow for only 20 foreign films in theaters each year typically running 10 days each.

The state-run China Film Group Corporation carried heavy influence in the decision, aiming to protect the interests of domestic film makers from the James Cameron's cinematic giant which has already grossed $76 million in Chinese ticket sales.

Chinese movie-goers are not likely to support the decision as "Avatar" has proven wildly popular, already stealing the nation's record for highest grossing film. Critics remain skeptic as to whether "Confucius" or any other domestic films will draw as excited crowd as "Avatar."

Cameron, while promoting his new film abroad, recently stated his support that the Chinese film industry open more doors for foreign films within its borders in order to expand its market. Many agree, feeling China's growing economy will not be threatened by foreign movie competition.