China's May Day holiday cinema scene hit a new peak, with box office revenues topping 700 million yuan (about $96.3 million) by Monday afternoon. This surge underscores the growing appetite for diverse storytelling in the Chinese mainland and beyond.
Leading the charge is Andrew Lau's The Dumpling Queen, a fact-based drama featuring popular comedienne Ma Li. The film traces a Hong Kong street food vendor's journey to founding a household frozen food brand, blending local charm with entrepreneurial grit. Its resonance with audiences highlights the universal appeal of real-life success stories.
Not far behind in the rankings is Herman Yau's A Gilded Game, a financial crime thriller starring Andy Lau and Oho Ou. Set against the backdrop of high-stakes fraud and market manipulation, the film offers a gripping look at the darker side of modern finance – a theme that strikes a chord with today's business and tech enthusiasts.
Completing the top three is Studio Ghibli's environmental epic Princess Mononoke, making its first-ever theatrical debut in the Chinese mainland. Originally released in Japan in 1997, this Hayao Miyazaki masterpiece continues to captivate new audiences with its stunning animation and timeless message on nature and humanity.
As the five-day holiday wraps up, this box office lineup reflects a broader trend: young global citizens are craving stories that combine cultural heritage, real-world impact, and innovative filmmaking. Whether you're a film buff, entrepreneur, or digital nomad, these hits showcase how cinema can bridge borders and spark fresh conversations across cultures.
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China's May Day holiday box office revenue surpasses 700 million yuan
cgtn.com
