SMART Cinema, a new movie screening app backed by China’s top film regulator, officially launched its North American version in Los Angeles during the 15th China-U.S. Film and TV Festival on Nov. 3.

Currently, 17 new movies are being screened on the Smart Cinema USA platform, including “Looking Up,” “Dying to Survive,” “Men on the Dragon,” “Cao Cao and Yang Xiu,” and “Chasing the Dragon II: Wild Wild Bunch.”

Unlike streaming websites, Smart Cinema is like a theater in your pocket. Users need to purchase an e-ticket to watch the film at a scheduled screening time. One ticket allows one person to watch one time.

Smart Cinema USA has set up an online screening section for the 15th China-U.S. Film Festival film exhibition. In the special section, the audience can enjoy 15 screenings, including “Guilt by Design,” “Coward Hero,” “The Secret of China,” and “Daughter of Shanghai.” The exhibition page is officially launched today and will last for about four months.

Gao Qunyao, CEO of Smart China, said, “Smart Cinema USA will bring the latest and hottest Chinese theatrical releases directly to the North American audience through mobile platform, helping to make increments for the Chinese film overseas market.” (China Daily)