Recently, Disney’s Zootopia 2 exploded onto screens in the Chinese mainland, emerging as a box office phenomenon this year. According to Hollywood filmmaker and producer Keith Collea, it’s no accident: today, the Chinese mainland represents the most sophisticated and consequential film audience on the globe.
So what drove this success? First, audiences here demand depth: smart storytelling, relatable characters and themes that resonate with social change. Second, strategic localization—from culturally tuned dialogue to engagement with key opinion leaders on social platforms—ignited enthusiastic word-of-mouth.
Premium formats also played a role. IMAX and 4DX releases catered to urban moviegoers seeking immersive experiences, while early fan screenings created buzz that carried into opening weekend. Online ratings surged, and by midweek, Zootopia 2 had become the top-grossing animated release of 2025 in the Chinese mainland.
Collea emphasizes that this trend goes beyond one blockbuster. Chinese mainland cinema isn’t just strong at home—it’s shaping global storytelling. As local audiences push for higher-quality content and filmmakers embrace cross-border collaboration, insights from the Chinese mainland are informing studios worldwide. The result? A more nuanced, globally resonant film landscape.
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Analyst: China represents most sophisticated film audience on globe
cgtn.com
