As of November 30, 2025, the Chinese mainland's box office receipts for the year have surged past 48 billion yuan (approximately $6.78 billion), including presales, according to data compiled from leading online ticketing platforms.
This milestone marks a significant uptick from the same period last year, driven by a slate of homegrown blockbusters and a rebound in audience attendance after summer festival releases. Industry analysts point to a 15% year-over-year growth in presales, highlighting the growing impact of fan communities and early-bird marketing campaigns.
Key highlights include:
- Domestic productions leading the charge, with three films grossing over 2 billion yuan each.
- Presales accounting for nearly 20% of total revenue, underscoring the power of social media buzz and influencer partnerships.
- Expanded screenings in lower-tier cities, where new venues and smartphone ticketing have made cinema more accessible.
"We're witnessing a new era in cinematic engagement," says Zhang Wei, a Beijing-based market strategist.
Looking ahead, the upcoming winter holiday season and international film festivals in December are poised to add another boost to the box office. Streaming platforms are also sharpening their release strategies, blurring the line between theatrical and digital premieres.
For global cinema enthusiasts and industry watchers, the Chinese mainland's robust performance this year reaffirms its status as a powerhouse market shaping trends across the film landscape.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
