Smart Cinema, a new movie screening app backed by the country's top film regulator, officially launched its North American version in Los Angeles during the 15th China-US 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 for one time.

Smart Cinema USA has set up an online screening section for the 15th China-US Film Festival film exhibition. In the special section, the audience can enjoy 15 outstanding screenings, including Guilt by Design, Coward Hero, The Secret of China, and Daughter of Shanghai. The exhibition page will be officially launched on Nov 7, 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, help to make increments for the Chinese film overseas market."