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Bait takes bite out of Chinese film market

An action 3D thriller has become the most successful Aussie flick ever released in China.

In just 11 weeks Bait, starring Xavier Samuel, has taken over AUD$20 million at the box office. The film was released on 1,700 screens across China, which is now the third largest film market in the world.

According to Chris Oliver, senior manager of state and industry partnerships at Screen Australia, "the Chinese are mad about 3D. Earlier this year the Chinese government officially increased the quota of foreign films allowed into the country from 20 to 34 a year, higher if you include co-productions. It's a good outcome, we've had an active Asian strategy for the past three years."