In a remarkable move, the Ministry of State Security (MSS) in China has endorsed a film titled "Scare Out," marking the first time the ministry has backed a motion picture. Directed by the acclaimed Zhang Yimou, known for his Oscar-nominated works such as "Ju Dou" and "Hero," the film was released on February 17, 2023, coinciding with Chinese New Year. Its plot centers around a mole within China's intelligence service leaking classified information, reflecting the MSS's growing openness to engage with the public on national security matters.
"Scare Out" features well-known actors Jackson Yee and Zhu Yilong, and dramatizes the chase of a spy attempting to evade capture using high-tech gadgets, including drones. This cinematic portrayal aims to enhance awareness and engagement in national security, with the MSS stating that the film is intended to "strengthen the people's defense line" and promote education on national security. The ministry actively promoted the film on social media and has been increasingly transparent about its operations since it began posting on platforms like WeChat two years ago, emphasizing community involvement in counterespionage efforts.
Security experts view the film as part of a broader strategy by the MSS to foster popular support for its initiatives. According to Sheena Greitens, an associate professor at the University of Texas at Austin, the ministry seeks to mobilize citizens to report suspicious activities, thereby making national security an engaging topic for the public. Zhang Yimou revealed that state security officials were present during the filming process to ensure authenticity, showcasing a collaboration between the film industry and state security agencies.
The narrative of "Scare Out" has drawn comparisons to real-life incidents, such as allegations of a researcher leaking information about China's J-35 fighter jet. Despite the film's artistic embellishments, its release serves to bolster the MSS's image and objectives. The film has also received international attention, screening in the United States, Canada, and Australia since its debut, accruing a substantial box office total of 1.1 billion yuan (approximately $160 million) within its first two weeks.
Viewers like Alice Jin and Wang Lehang noted that the film successfully engaged them, with some finding it more effective than traditional lectures on patriotism. Feedback indicates that many were unaware of the MSS before watching the film, highlighting its potential to elevate public knowledge about national security structures in China.
As the film industry in other countries has long tackled espionage themes—most notably the James Bond franchise—the company aims to illustrate a distinct narrative perspective that underscores national unity and vigilance. In conjunction with the movie's release, the CIA has been deploying recruitment efforts aimed at Chinese officials, escalating a parallel narrative of espionage across international lines.
In response to these developments, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has condemned the CIA's recruitment tactics, asserting that China will take all necessary measures to protect its national security from external threats. The landscape of espionage narratives and national security efforts continues to evolve, as both nations employ varied strategies to depict their respective intelligence services.
