In a landmark achievement for the global film industry, China's box office revenue for 2025, including advance ticket sales, has officially crossed the 10-billion-yuan mark (nearly $1.4 billion), solidifying its position at the top of the global box office rankings.
The cumulative box office earnings during the Spring Festival period have not only surpassed those of North America but have also set a new historical record. As of 3:30 p.m. on Monday, the box office for the Spring Festival period reached 8 billion yuan (over $1.1 billion), according to data from the National Film Administration.
Leading this unprecedented success is the animated blockbuster Ne Zha 2, which has shattered over ten national box office records. The film has already outperformed last year's Spring Festival champion, Yolo, and is now poised to become the all-time highest-grossing film in China's cinema history.
The sequel builds on the phenomenal success of its predecessor. In 2019, Ne Zha: Birth of the Demon Child stunned the movie industry with earnings of 5 billion yuan (around $690 million). Ne Zha 2 returns with a more compelling storyline and breathtaking visuals, sparking widespread discussion and drawing audiences in droves to theaters across the country.
This milestone signifies more than just box office success; it marks a significant shift in China's film industry. Not long ago, Chinese studios were seen as Hollywood's \"back office,\" handling minor visual effects for U.S. films. As China's film industry grew, many productions outsourced work to foreign studios. However, this trend is 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 transformation, showcasing the capabilities of domestic studios in delivering world-class visual effects and compelling narratives that resonate with both local and international audiences.
The record-breaking performance of China's box office during the 2025 Spring Festival reflects the country's growing influence in the global film industry. It also highlights the appetite for stories that blend traditional culture with cutting-edge technology, offering a unique cinematic experience.
As China continues to invest in its film industry and cultivate homegrown talent, the global audience can expect more groundbreaking films that not only entertain but also provide insight into China's rich cultural heritage.
Reference(s):
2025 Chinese New Year box office soars to 10B yuan, tops global charts
cgtn.com
