Cinema as an Element of a State's Soft Power System

Abstract

The article considers cinema as one of the most profitable cultural industries as well as a highly influential instrument of "soft power". the authors claim, however, that it's not enough to simply create a film in order to use it as a "soft power" tool. the article examines the ways of how a film can contribute to a positive image of the country, using the examples of the USA and China. It also takes a look at cinema within the system of a country's soft power instruments as well as in relation to the economy. Finally, the authors will analyze the situation and prospects of Russian cinema.

Keywords

• cinema
• soft power
• creative industries
• international image
• political influence.