Beijing, China – In an unprecedented surge of cinematic enthusiasm, China's daily box office revenue soared to a new height on Wednesday, the first day of the Spring Festival, amassing an impressive 1.805 billion yuan (approximately $249 million). This remarkable feat marks a significant milestone in the nation's film industry, as both the box office earnings and the number of moviegoers surpassed previous records set during the 2021 Spring Festival.
According to the China Film Administration (CFA), a staggering 35.15 million people flocked to theaters across the country to enjoy a diverse lineup of domestic films. The Spring Festival holiday, known as one of China's most lucrative seasons for movie releases, extends from January 28 to February 4 this year, offering audiences an extra day of entertainment compared to previous years.
The box office success was driven by six new domestic films that debuted on Wednesday, encompassing a wide array of genres. From Chinese mythology and wuxia – a genre highlighting martial arts and chivalry – to comedy, fantasy, animation, and drama, the offerings catered to a broad spectrum of audience preferences.
Industry analysts at Huajin Securities observed that the diverse genres of these new releases appealed to various viewer groups. They also noted that many of these films are part of well-established franchises with strong reputations and dedicated fan bases, contributing to their strong performance at the box office.
In an effort to unlock the full consumption potential of moviegoers, the CFA has encouraged relevant institutions to allocate approximately 600 million yuan in moviegoing consumption subsidies since December of last year. This initiative aims to stimulate the film market by making movie experiences more accessible to the public.
Looking ahead, Kaiyuan Securities predicts a continued upward trend in box office revenues. The firm projects that total box office takings during the 2025 Spring Festival holiday will reach 8.54 billion yuan, representing a 6.7 percent year-on-year increase. This optimistic forecast reflects confidence in the sustained growth and resilience of China's film industry.
The record-breaking figures underscore the dynamic expansion of China's entertainment sector and highlight the cultural significance of the Spring Festival as a time for shared experiences and family gatherings. As audiences eagerly return to theaters, the film industry stands as a testament to China's evolving economic landscape and its influential role in global cinema.
Reference(s):
China sees new daily box office revenue record during Spring Festival
cgtn.com
