Confucius can take the Na’vi any day of the week, apparently. China will be pulling the blockbuster Avatar, directed by James Cameron, from theaters throughout the country to make room for a state-backed biopic on the ancient philosopher. According to the Associated Press, the decision, made by state authorities, is an effort to make room for an influx of new domestic films, coinciding with the upcoming Lunar New Year holiday. And if you’re worried Cameron’s ego might even be the slightest bit hurt, you shouldn’t. Avatar will continue to show in IMAX and 3D in China. Despite the reports from state authorities, some Chinese commentators are speculating that the film and its politics are striking a chord with government officials, who only allow 20 foreign films to be imported per year.
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