China box office sets Spring Festival holiday record of US$1.14 billion
The special screening of Matthew Vaughn's new spy thriller "Argylle" attracted many movie buffs.
A trailer advertises "Argylle."
China's box office receipts over the Spring Festival holiday (February 10-17) set a record of 8.02 billion yuan (US$1.14 billion), a 18.47 percent increase from the same period last year.
Statistics from the China Film Administration also show that around 163 million cinemagoers attended more than 3.95 million film screenings during the holiday. Four comedy movies — "YOLO," "Pegasus 2," "Boonie Bears: Time Twist," and "Article 20" — topped the chart, together accounting for 97.7 percent of the total holiday box office revenue.
A special screening of director Matthew Vaughn's new spy thriller "Argylle" on Wednesday (February 21) was also well-received for the movie's innovative action scenes, dramatic plot twists, and comedic elements. The film will be released on Friday (February 23) and is expected to be another box office sensation.
Jia Ling's comedy drama "YOLO" topped the Spring Festival box office chart in China, raking in more than 2.7 billion yuan.
"Argylle" is expected to be a box office sensation for its comedic elements and dramatic plot twists.
The robust performance of the film market this month has also boosted industry insiders' confidence in Chinese cinema in 2024, when an array of highly anticipated productions in diverse genres will be released.
In March, movie buffs will also be offered a few blockbuster movies. The following are some of the most anticipated films that will hit cinemas across China in March.
A poster advertises "Madame Web."
"Madame Web"
Release date: March 1
Starring Dakota Johnson and Sydney Sweeney, the sci-fi action film is based on the Marvel Comics character. It is a story about New York paramedic Cassandra Webb, who demonstrates signs of clairvoyance. In the film, she needs to protect three young women from a deadly adversary with the power of viewing the future.
The superhero film also has an IMAX version. In the Marvel comics, Madame Web is a mysterious heroine who offers guidance to Spider-Man.
A poster advertises "The Pig, the Snake, and the Pigeon."
"The Pig, the Snake, and the Pigeon"
Release date: March 1
Based on real cases, the action-packed suspense crime film is about how a wanted criminal Chen Guilin eliminates the top two on the wanted list, and makes a name for himself.
Written and directed by Hong Kong filmmaker Wong Ching-po, the film stars Ethan Juan and features many action and chase scenes to depict the criminal's road to self-redemption.
A poster advertises "The Killing Performance."
"The Killing Performance"
Release date: March 2
This suspense comedy film tells the story of the mysterious death of a famous Peking Opera actress. An unreliable private detective and eight suspects in the murder are kidnapped in a theater to learn the truth within only four hours.
The plot is shrouded in mystery as each person has a hidden motive for the murder. The film also incorporates comedic and bizarre elements into the plot.
A poster advertises "Dune: Part Two."
"Dune: Part Two"
Release date: March 8
Based on Frank Herbert's futuristic sci-fi novel where humans live on many different planets, the adventure epic film centers on Paul Atreides' hunger for revenge against the clan who destroyed his family, and his partnership with Chani and the Fremen to take back their land.
The first part of "Dune" was a huge critical and financial success in 2021, earning more than US$400 million worldwide. Starring Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya, the sequel also has an IMAX version to present stunning visuals of its gripping scenes.
A poster advertises "Remember Me."
"Remember Me"
Release date: March 15
Starring Kara Wai and Liu Haocun, this drama revolves around the reunion of a kind-hearted woman and her granddaughter who accidentally got lost 12 years earlier.
The two go from being strangers to cuddling each other. During their time together, their secrets are gradually revealed. In the end, the grandmother saves the granddaughter, who had no hope for life.
A poster advertises "Kung Fu Panda 4."
"Kung Fu Panda 4"
Release date: March 22
The animated feature film is the latest installment of the "Kung Fu Panda" film franchise. The film follows Po's adventure in a big city in ancient China to find and train a new Dragon Warrior, after he becomes the Spiritual Leader of the Valley of Peace. However, a wicked sorceress plans to re-summon all the master villains whom Po has to defeat.
Directed by Mike Mitchell, the film is a story about courage, friendship and growth as Po will face unprecedented difficulties and tests. The film also incorporates many Chinese elements, from clothing, architecture to food, showcasing the unique charm of Chinese culture.
A poster advertises "Anatomy of A Fall."
"Anatomy of A Fall"
Release date: March 29
The French courtroom drama is the 2023 winner of the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. The film, which explores the hidden pain in marital relationships, has also garnered five nominations for the 2024 Academy Awards.
The film, written and directed by Justine Triet, tells the story of a woman in a small village who is suspected of murder after her husband's death. During the investigation, the couple's life and relationship are put on trial and their son becomes the main witness.
A poster advertises "Godzilla × Kong: The New Empire."
"Godzilla × Kong: The New Empire"
Release date: March 29
The sci-fi adventure film revolves around the epic battle and final cooperation of the two ancient titans, Godzilla and Kong, after humans uncover their intertwined origins and connection to Skull Island's mysteries.
A sequel to the 2021 film "Godzilla vs. Kong," the film also presents an IMAX version to depict the gigantic creatures, their origins, and the mysteries of Skull Island on the screen.
