In a landmark achievement for the global film industry, China's box office revenue for 2025 has officially crossed the 10-billion-yuan (nearly $1.4 billion) threshold, including advance ticket sales. This remarkable milestone solidifies China's position at the pinnacle of the global box office rankings, surpassing cumulative earnings in North America.
As of 3:30 p.m. on Monday, during the Spring Festival period, the box office reached a new historical record of 8 billion yuan (over $1.1 billion), according to data from the National Film Administration. This surge reflects the booming domestic film market and growing enthusiasm among Chinese audiences.
Leading this unprecedented success is the animated blockbuster \"Ne Zha 2,\" which has already outperformed last year's Spring Festival champion, \"Yolo.\" \"Ne Zha 2\" has shattered over ten national box office records and is poised to become the highest-grossing film in China's cinema history.
Back in 2019, \"Ne Zha: Birth of the Demon Child\" stunned the movie industry with earnings of 5 billion yuan (around $690 million). The sequel returns with a more compelling storyline and breathtaking visuals, sparking widespread discussion and acclaim.
The evolution of China's film industry is evident. Not long ago, Chinese studios were often seen as Hollywood's \"back office,\" handling minor visual effects for U.S. films. As the industry developed, many Chinese productions even outsourced work to foreign studios.
But that's changing. China's computer-generated imagery (CGI) industry is stepping forward, helping to tell stories deeply rooted in Chinese culture. The success of \"Ne Zha 2\" exemplifies this shift, showcasing domestic talent and technological prowess.
This milestone not only marks a significant achievement for China's film industry but also highlights the country's growing influence on global cinema. With a blend of cultural storytelling and cutting-edge technology, Chinese films are captivating audiences at home and abroad, signaling a new era for the industry.
Reference(s):
2025 Chinese New Year box office soars to 10B yuan, tops global charts
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