The 2025 Spring Festival film season has set new records in the Chinese mainland, with box office revenues surpassing 5 billion yuan (about $698 million) as of 3 p.m. Thursday. Sequels took center stage this year, captivating audiences across the nation.
Leading the pack is ‘Ne Zha 2’, which has amassed an impressive 927 million yuan ($127 million) in ticket sales. The animated blockbuster continues the tale of the demon child Ne Zha, reborn after a fierce battle, as he strives to defeat the four sea dragon kings to protect his homeland.
Other popular sequels include ‘Detective Chinatown 1900’, ‘Creation of the Gods II: Demon Force’, and ‘Boonie Bears: Future Reborn’. These films build upon their predecessors, offering fans a mix of familiarity and new excitement.
This year’s lineup boasts a diverse range of genres and themes—from mythology and epic tales to action-packed adventures, martial arts, comedy, and science fiction. Such variety ensures there’s something for everyone at the cinema during the festive season.
The success of these sequels highlights the thriving film industry in the Chinese mainland and the audience’s appetite for engaging storytelling and cinematic experiences.
