Chinese Independent Film refers to a genre of cinema produced outside the traditional state-controlled film industry in China. These films often explore themes of social issues, personal struggles, and cultural identity, providing a platform for voices that may be marginalized in mainstream media. The movement gained momentum in the late 1990s and early 2000s, with filmmakers like Jia Zhangke and Wang Bing gaining international recognition. Independent films are typically characterized by lower budgets, innovative storytelling, and a focus on realism, often challenging censorship and government regulations in the process.