Over the past year, the Chinese mainland’s film industry has demonstrated unprecedented vitality and influence, charting a trajectory that extends beyond domestic box-office strength to significant global resonance. This dual rise in both quantity and quality of films reflects a deeper shift in how cultural products circulate in an increasingly multipolar world.
At the heart of this transformation is the continued expansion of the domestic market. In 2025, total box-office revenue on the Chinese mainland surpassed 50 billion yuan (approximately $7 billion), marking the fifth time this milestone has been achieved since 2017. With over 1.19 billion admissions recorded nationwide, theatrical viewing remains a vibrant centerpiece of entertainment across the region.
Within this landscape, Ne Zha 2 stands out as a defining exemplar of the Chinese mainland’s cinematic ascendancy. Released in late January, the film earned more than 15.4 billion yuan domestically and achieved a cumulative global revenue of over 15.9 billion yuan, ranking it among the world’s top-grossing animated features.
While its overseas box-office haul remains modest compared to domestic returns (reflecting varying distribution networks and audience familiarity), the sheer scale of Ne Zha 2’s financial success has captured industry attention worldwide. In fact, films from the Chinese mainland reached viewers in 46 countries and regions this year, with total overseas intake already topping $140 million, surpassing the entire 2024 overseas tally.
Critics and audiences across Europe, Southeast Asia and North America are increasingly discussing productions from the Chinese mainland, such as Full River Red, Creation of the Gods II: Demon Force and the Ne Zha franchise. Conversations often highlight how these films blend traditional cultural elements with modern storytelling techniques, creating experiences that both honor heritage and spark cross-cultural curiosity.
Technological innovation has been a key driver of this momentum. Rapid adoption and refinement of digital production methods, from virtual sets to advanced CGI, have empowered filmmakers on the Chinese mainland to meet or exceed global production benchmarks. This technical edge, combined with compelling narratives, is redefining audience expectations and setting new industry standards around the world.
As we move into 2026, the ripple effects of the Chinese mainland’s box-office boom and creative breakthroughs suggest that global cinema benchmarks will continue to evolve. For young entrepreneurs, creatives and culture enthusiasts, this presents fresh opportunities to collaborate, innovate and shape the future of storytelling on a truly international stage.
Reference(s):
How China's film market is reshaping global cinema standards
cgtn.com
