China Exclusive: What's next after 'Black Coal, Thin Ice' wins

Chinese film 'Black Coal, Thin Ice' wins Golden Bear in 64th Berlinale

Chinese film a hit at Berlin Festival

'Chollywood' goes arty

Observers consider that "Black Coal, Thin Ice" bridges the gap between art house and multiplex elements. Diao Yinan, director of the film believes that Chinese productions have matured in recent years, as art and commercial films learn from each other.

The script of "Black Coal, Thin Ice" was one of 20 projects funded by China Film Private Capital(CFPC), which helps directors enter the international market. Established in 2007 at the Shanghai International Film Festival, CFPC helps use private capital to support young directors gain exposure in the West.

"Private investment in film has been encouraged and we can expect more brilliant works combining both artistic and commercial values in the near future," said Fu Wenxi of the Shanghai festival.

Fu hopes that the success of "Black Coal, Thin Ice" will encourage film-makers, despite the current shallow market.

During the lunar New year holiday in 2013, movies grossed 760 million yuan with 19.25 million people going to the cinema. Both figures set historical records.