Before national film bureau issues the mandate, around 500 cinemas across the country had attempted to resume trading following bid to ease quarantine restrictions.
- March 28, 2020
AceShowbiz - Movie theatres across China will close their doors once again after re-opening following the coronavirus lockdown.
Around 500 cinemas across the country had attempted to resume trading following the country-wide shutdown, but on Friday (March 27) China's national film bureau ordered all theatres throughout the country shut again.
The venues had only re-opened after receiving direct authorisation local government bodies, but saw little financial benefit as people continue to self isolate due to the health crisis - despite a restored 3D version of "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone", starring Daniel Radcliffe as the young wizard, being released in theatres in an attempt to boost trade.
While officials from the national film bureau didn't explain the decision, a similar incident occurred in late February, where the municipal authorities attempted ease quarantine restrictions only to cancel the plans hours later, saying an "invalid" decision had been made without higher authorization.
The move comes as World Health Organisation officials continue to advise people to stay home and practice social distancing to help prevent the spread of Covid-19, which began in the city of Wuhan, China, in December (19).
