This past weekend marked a significant shift in the Chinese box office landscape. Warner Bros. and Legendary’s live-action adaptation of the beloved video game, "A Minecraft Movie," claimed the top spot with an impressive opening revenue of RMB105.5 million ($14.7 million). The film launched during the Qingming Festival period, capitalizing on holiday audiences. Meanwhile, Feng Xiaogang's emotional drama, "We Girls," secured second place with $11.1 million. Further down the list, "Ne Zha 2" continued its dominance, accumulating $2.11 billion since its release. CKF Pictures' "Mumu" and Shanghai Film Group's action-packed "Fox Hunt" also made notable debuts. Collectively, these films contributed to a robust weekend total of $52.5 million, showcasing the market's ongoing recovery.
The debut of "A Minecraft Movie" has reinvigorated the Chinese box office scene. This eagerly anticipated film, based on one of the world's most popular video games, found success across the country during the Qingming Festival. Its appeal resonated widely, drawing both families and younger demographics who have grown up playing the game. The timing of its release proved crucial, as the holiday provided ample opportunity for moviegoers to flock to theaters. With such a strong start, industry insiders anticipate that this film could maintain its momentum over the coming weeks.
Feng Xiaogang's "We Girls" offers a compelling narrative centered around themes of resilience and sisterhood. The story follows Gao Yuexiang, portrayed by Zhao Liying, whose life takes a dramatic turn when she is imprisoned after attempting to secure a cochlear implant for her daughter. Within the confines of prison, Gao forms deep connections with fellow inmates, including Hei Mei, Deng Hong, Hu Ping, and Guo Aimei. Together, they navigate challenges while fostering mutual support. This heartfelt portrayal of human strength amidst adversity struck a chord with audiences, ensuring its solid performance at the box office.
"Ne Zha 2," an animated epic from Cococartoon, remains an unstoppable force in the Chinese market. In its tenth week, it added another $10 million to its already staggering cumulative total of $2.11 billion. The film's enduring popularity can be attributed not only to its captivating storyline but also to its stunning visuals presented in premium formats like Imax. As it continues to attract viewers week after week, "Ne Zha 2" cements its status as the highest-grossing film of 2025 thus far.
In addition to these blockbusters, smaller yet impactful films like "Mumu" and "Fox Hunt" contributed significantly to the weekend's overall success. "Mumu," directed by Mo Sha, explores the complexities of growing up within a deaf community and adapting to new realities. Its poignant storytelling captivated audiences, earning $7.3 million in its first full weekend. Similarly, Zhang Leo's "Fox Hunt," featuring Tony Leung Chiu-wai and Yihong Duan, delivered thrilling action sequences that resonated with fans of the genre, grossing $3.4 million upon its release.
The recent achievements in the Chinese box office underscore the market's resilience and vitality. As spring approaches, the influx of diverse and engaging films promises to further invigorate the industry. The combination of established franchises, emotionally charged dramas, and innovative animations ensures a dynamic cinematic experience for audiences nationwide. With continued growth projected, the future looks bright for filmmakers and theater operators alike.